'The optics were poor' - Springboks coach reacts to Eben Etzebeth red card

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South Africa leader the national team coach admitted "the optics weren't great" following legendary lock the towering player was sent off for an eye gouge in the match with Wales

The Springboks achieved a perfect autumn series through overwhelming play at the Welsh capital to score eleven touchdowns during a comprehensive shutout

Yet nearly the last action of the annual campaign was Etzebeth, who scored the concluding points being dismissed from the official the presiding official

The veteran forward was shown a dismissal for making contact the eye area of the Welsh player the back-row forward using his thumb during late-game altercation

"It's difficult to say what to comment that avoids controversy. The appearance was poor making it a proper sending-off," commented the coach

"The manner it occurred and the reasons behind it, if he was instigated, it's unclear, however it's certainly not how that we would have liked to conclude the match. I believe the visual impression was positive"

The second-row forward, who extended his Springboks record through receiving his 141st appearance in Wales, looks certain to receive a lengthy ban

His club side commence their European competition in France this coming weekend followed by a home fixture against Saracens including domestic clashes through the Christmas season

The top-ranked team overpowered Wales throughout the contest that became unbalanced from the off

Steve Tandy's reign has commenced following substantial reverses versus leading rugby powers plus a narrow victory facing the Brave Blossoms

The national side has experienced numerous losses in current form but the coach attempted to give reassurance

"In my opinion the squad has been progressing and advancing, this demonstrated a measured showing," he commented

"Wales are not a team that give up accept defeat, they battle continuously. This demonstrated a remarkably efficient showing and us putting maximum commitment"

"The team includes an excellent manager and shall return. We know situations can transform as demonstrated in 1998 we defeated them (by a huge margin) and then lost in 1999"

South Africa finish the year as the number one side following victories in successive tournament wins

South Africa's team have displayed their impressive resources and capability yet Erasmus pointed to their former position

"We experienced similar circumstances with fans destroying merchandise, but the Welsh people are here," he noted

"There is the support and the players have the fight. Secure initial victories, create a streak and circumstances will improve

"I know that situations transformed from our previous struggles, culminating in the 2019 championship. Anything is possible"

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