'The optics were poor' - Springboks coach reacts to Etzebeth sending off

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Springboks leader Rassie Erasmus conceded "the visual impression was poor" after legendary lock the towering player was sent off due to eye contact in the match with Wales

South Africa's national team completed an autumn clean sweep through overwhelming play at the Welsh capital to score multiple scores resulting in a 73-0 win

However almost the final act of the international year was Etzebeth, who crossed the last try getting sent off through the decision of Luc Ramos

The veteran forward was given a red card due to contact with the left eye of Wales flanker the back-row forward via digital contact in a match-ending incident

"I'm uncertain what to comment without causing debate. It didn't look good and it was a justified red card," commented the coach

"How it happened and what prompted it, whether there was provocation, I cannot confirm, however it's certainly not how we preferred to end the game. I don't think it appeared favorable"

The experienced player, who expanded his cap achievement when winning cap number 141 in Wales, looks certain to be given a prolonged period out

His Sharks team start their continental tournament in France this coming weekend prior to a domestic match facing the London side including domestic clashes through the Christmas season

The reigning titleholders dominated the Welsh in a fixture that was one-sided from the off

Steve Tandy's reign has begun with multiple significant losses against top-tier nations plus a narrow victory facing the Brave Blossoms

The national side has experienced multiple defeats in recent games but the coach attempted to give reassurance

"In my opinion the squad has been progressing and building up, this demonstrated a disciplined display," he commented

"The Welsh are not players who surrender easily yield to pressure, they battle continuously. This was an exceptionally precise display featuring our squad exhibiting total dedication"

"The Welsh possess a quality leader and shall return. We know fortunes can reverse and in 1998 we overcame them (comprehensively) and then lost the following year"

South Africa end the calendar as the number one side having secured back-to-back Rugby Championship titles

South Africa's team have demonstrated their impressive resources and prowess however the manager recalled their previous lower ranking

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

"There is the support and the team demonstrates determination. Secure initial victories, create a streak and circumstances will improve

"I'm aware that fortunes reversed from 2016, when we were nowhere, achieving global success. Potential remains unlimited"

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