'The optics were poor' - Erasmus discusses Etzebeth red card

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Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus conceded "the visual impression was poor" after legendary lock the towering player was sent off due to eye contact versus the Welsh team

The Springboks achieved a perfect autumn series by going on the rampage in Cardiff netting 11 tries in a comprehensive shutout

However virtually the concluding moment of the international year was Etzebeth, who went over for the final score receiving a red card from the official the match referee

The experienced player was given a red card due to contact with the left eye of the Welsh player Alex Mann using his thumb in a 79th-minute scuffle

"I'm uncertain what I can say that won't be controversial. The visual was unfavorable and it was a proper sending-off," stated the manager

"The manner it occurred and the reasons behind it, if he was instigated, I cannot confirm, but it's definitely not the manner we preferred to end the game. I believe that the optics were great"

Etzebeth, who expanded his national team milestone through receiving his 141st appearance in Wales, appears likely to receive an extended suspension

His club side commence their Champions Cup campaign against the French side this coming weekend prior to a domestic match versus the English club and South African derbies over the festive period

The reigning titleholders dominated the Welsh during the match that became unbalanced from the off

Steve Tandy's reign has begun following substantial reverses versus leading rugby powers plus a narrow victory versus the Asian side

The national side has experienced numerous losses in current form but the coach attempted to provide encouragement

"I feel the squad has been progressing and building up, this demonstrated a measured showing," he stated

"The Welsh are not players who surrender easily and take the shots, they fight until the end. This represented one of the really clinical performances and us putting total dedication"

"The team includes a quality leader and shall return. We understand it can change and in 1998 we overcame them (96-13) and then lost the following year"

The national team end the calendar as the number one side having secured successive tournament wins

The world champions have demonstrated their extensive squad strength and power but the coach referenced their former position

"Our team faced comparable conditions with fans destroying merchandise, yet Welsh supporters remain," he said

"There is the support with the squad showing spirit. Secure initial victories, get on a roll and results will transform

"I know that fortunes reversed from our previous struggles, to 2019 when we won the World Cup. All outcomes are achievable"

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