'It didn't look good' - Erasmus on Etzebeth sending off

Springboks action photo

The veteran lock has secured back-to-back global titles representing the Springboks

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Springboks head coach the national team coach admitted "the visual impression was poor" after veteran forward the towering player was sent off for making contact with an opponent's eye versus the Welsh team

The Springboks achieved a flawless end-of-year tour through overwhelming play during the match to score eleven touchdowns in a 73-0 win

However almost the final act of the international year involved the lock forward, who went over the last try getting sent off by referee the presiding official

The experienced player was shown a red card due to contact the facial region of opponent Alex Mann using his thumb in a match-ending incident

"It's difficult to say what I can say without causing debate. The appearance was poor therefore it became a justified red card," said Erasmus

"How it happened and why it happened, if he was instigated, I am not sure, yet it's absolutely not the way that we would have liked to finish the contest. I don't think the visual impression was positive"

The second-row forward, who extended his cap achievement through receiving cap number 141 in Wales, looks certain to be given an extended suspension

His domestic franchise commence their Champions Cup campaign in France on Sunday, 7 December prior to a domestic match facing the London side and South African derbies during the holidays

South Africa's disciplined power

The world champions overpowered Wales during the match that became unbalanced from the off

Steve Tandy's reign has commenced with three heavy autumn defeats to South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina alongside a late triumph versus the Asian side

Wales have lost numerous losses in current form yet Erasmus tried to give reassurance

"In my opinion the squad has been progressing and advancing, this represented a controlled performance," he commented

"The Welsh are not guys that give up and take the shots, they battle continuously. This was a remarkably efficient showing and us putting maximum commitment"

"The Welsh possess a quality leader and will rebound. We recognize fortunes can reverse like the 1998 example we defeated them (comprehensively) and then lost soon after"

The national team finish the year top of world rugby after winning consecutive southern hemisphere crowns

South Africa's team have showcased their impressive resources and capability but the coach referenced their previous lower ranking

"We were in that situation and people were burning jerseys, but the Welsh people are here," he said

"The backing exists with the squad showing spirit. Secure initial victories, get on a roll and circumstances will improve

"I recognize that things changed starting from a low base in 2016, achieving global success. Potential remains unlimited"

Connected themes

  • Wales national team
  • The governing body
  • International rugby
Nicole Sparks
Nicole Sparks

A seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience covering political and social issues across Europe.