'The optics were poor' - Erasmus reacts to Etzebeth dismissal

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Springboks leader Rassie Erasmus admitted "the optics weren't great" following legendary lock Eben Etzebeth was sent off due to eye contact in the match with Wales

South Africa's national team secured a flawless end-of-year tour through overwhelming play at the Welsh capital netting multiple scores resulting in a 73-0 win

Nevertheless almost the final act of the Test season featured the veteran player, who crossed the concluding points being dismissed through the decision of the match referee

The 34-year-old was shown a sending-off for making contact with the left eye of Wales flanker the back-row forward with his thumb during late-game altercation

"It's difficult to say what to comment that won't be controversial. The appearance was poor and it was a legitimate dismissal," stated the manager

"The manner it occurred and what prompted it, and if he was provoked, it's unclear, yet it's absolutely not the manner we had hoped to end the game. I believe it appeared favorable"

The second-row forward, who extended his Springboks record through receiving his 141st appearance in Cardiff, appears likely to receive a lengthy ban

His club side commence their Champions Cup campaign in France on Sunday, 7 December prior to a domestic match versus the English club including domestic clashes during the holidays

The top-ranked team dominated the Welsh throughout the contest that was one-sided from the start

Steve Tandy's reign has commenced with three heavy autumn defeats versus leading rugby powers and a last-gasp win facing the Brave Blossoms

The Welsh team has suffered multiple defeats in recent games but the coach attempted to provide encouragement

"In my opinion the squad has been progressing and building up, this represented a controlled performance," he said

"Wales are not players that just roll over yield to pressure, they battle continuously. This was a remarkably efficient showing with our team displaying our soul out on the game"

"The Welsh possess a great coach and shall return. We recognize fortunes can reverse like the 1998 example we overcame them (96-13) and then lost in 1999"

The Springboks finish the year ranked first globally following victories in back-to-back Rugby Championship titles

South Africa's team have showcased their formidable depth and capability but the coach referenced their former position

"We experienced similar circumstances and supporters expressing anger, yet Welsh supporters remain," he said

"The encouragement continues and the players have the fight. Achieve early successes, create a streak and results will transform

"I'm aware that fortunes reversed from 2016, when we were nowhere, achieving global success. All outcomes are achievable"

Related topics

• Rugby in Wales
• Wales Rugby Union
• Rugby Union