'The optics were poor' - Erasmus on Eben Etzebeth sending off

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Springboks leader the national team coach acknowledged "the visual impression was poor" in the wake of legendary lock the towering player was sent off for making contact with an opponent's eye against Wales

South Africa's national team achieved a perfect autumn series with a dominant performance during the match registering eleven touchdowns in a 73-0 win

However almost the final act of the annual campaign featured the veteran player, who scored the concluding points receiving a red card by referee the presiding official

The 34-year-old was given a red card for touching with the left eye of Wales flanker Alex Mann using his thumb during late-game altercation

"I don't know what to comment that avoids controversy. The visual was unfavorable making it a legitimate dismissal," said Erasmus

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

The second-row forward, who extended his cap achievement when winning cap number 141 in Wales, seems destined to be given an extended suspension

His Sharks team start their European competition in France early December followed by a home fixture versus the English club plus local rivalries over the festive period

The reigning titleholders overpowered Wales throughout the contest which proved lopsided from the beginning

The new coach's tenure has started following substantial reverses versus leading rugby powers alongside a late triumph facing the Brave Blossoms

The national side has experienced 21 of their last 23 Test matches however the manager sought to give reassurance

"I feel that we have been building and building up, this demonstrated a disciplined display," he stated

"The Welsh team are not players who surrender easily yield to pressure, they battle continuously. This demonstrated a remarkably efficient showing featuring our squad exhibiting total dedication"

"The Welsh possess a quality leader and shall return. We recognize fortunes can reverse and in 1998 we defeated them (by a huge margin) and then lost soon after"

The national team finish the year as the number one side having secured successive tournament wins

The Springboks have showcased their impressive resources and prowess yet Erasmus pointed to their previous lower ranking

"We were in that situation and people were burning jerseys, yet Welsh supporters remain," he commented

"The encouragement continues with the squad showing spirit. Secure initial victories, create a streak and circumstances will improve

"I recognize that fortunes reversed from 2016, when we were nowhere, to 2019 when we won the World Cup. Potential remains unlimited"

Associated subjects

• Rugby in Wales
• Wales Rugby Union
• Rugby Union