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

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Springboks manager Rassie Erasmus acknowledged "the optics weren't great" after legendary lock Eben Etzebeth was sent off for an eye gouge in the match with Wales

The Springboks secured a perfect autumn series with a dominant performance at the Welsh capital to score 11 tries during a 73-nil victory

However virtually the concluding moment of the international year featured the veteran player, who crossed the last try getting sent off by referee the match referee

The veteran forward was shown a red card due to contact the facial region of opponent the back-row forward with his thumb in a match-ending incident

"I don't know what I can say that won't be controversial. The visual was unfavorable and it was a justified red card," commented the coach

"The way it unfolded and the reasons behind it, if he was instigated, I am not sure, but it's definitely not the way that we would have liked to end the game. In my view that the optics were great"

The experienced player, who expanded his cap achievement by earning cap number 141 in Cardiff, appears likely to receive an extended suspension

His club side commence their continental tournament at Toulouse early December before a home game versus the English club plus local rivalries over the festive period

The world champions dominated the Welsh throughout the contest which proved lopsided from the beginning

Steve Tandy's reign has started with multiple significant losses against top-tier nations and a last-gasp win against Japan

Wales have lost multiple defeats in recent games but the coach attempted to offer some comfort

"I believe that we have been building and building up, this represented a disciplined display," he said

"The Welsh are not guys that give up and take the shots, they battle continuously. This demonstrated an exceptionally precise display featuring our squad exhibiting total dedication"

"The team includes an excellent manager and shall return. We recognize fortunes can reverse as demonstrated in 1998 we defeated them (by a huge margin) then were defeated the following year"

South Africa conclude the season ranked first globally following victories in successive tournament wins

The Springboks have displayed their formidable depth and power however the manager recalled their former position

"We were in that situation and supporters expressing anger, but the Welsh people are here," he commented

"The backing exists and the players have the fight. Secure initial victories, build momentum and circumstances will improve

"I'm aware that situations transformed starting from a low base in 2016, culminating in the 2019 championship. Anything is possible"

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