'The optics were poor' - Erasmus discusses Etzebeth dismissal

• Published
  Recently published
• 63 Comments

South Africa leader Rassie Erasmus conceded "the optics weren't great" following experienced second-row Eben Etzebeth was sent off for an eye gouge in the match with Wales

South Africa's national team completed a perfect autumn series by going on the rampage in Cardiff to score multiple scores in a comprehensive shutout

However almost the final act of the Test season involved the lock forward, who went over for the final score being dismissed through the decision of Luc Ramos

The 34-year-old received a red card for touching the eye area of opponent Alex Mann with his thumb in a match-ending incident

"I'm uncertain what to comment without causing debate. It didn't look good and it was a proper sending-off," stated the manager

"The way it unfolded and what prompted it, and if he was provoked, I am not sure, yet it's absolutely not how we had hoped to finish the contest. In my view it appeared favorable"

The experienced player, who extended his national team milestone when winning a 141st cap in Cardiff, seems destined to face a lengthy ban

His domestic franchise start their European competition at Toulouse this coming weekend before a home game against Saracens and South African derbies during the holidays

The reigning titleholders dominated the Welsh throughout the contest that became unbalanced from the start

The new coach's tenure has commenced following substantial reverses versus leading rugby powers plus a narrow victory against Japan

Wales have lost numerous losses in current form yet Erasmus tried to offer some comfort

"I feel that we have been building and advancing, this represented a controlled performance," he commented

"The Welsh are not guys who surrender easily accept defeat, they battle continuously. This represented an exceptionally precise display and us putting our soul out on the game"

"Wales have a quality leader and will come back. We recognize it can change as demonstrated in 1998 we defeated them (96-13) and then lost soon after"

The Springboks end the calendar top of world rugby having secured back-to-back Rugby Championship titles

The Springboks have displayed their impressive resources and prowess yet Erasmus pointed to when they were ranked sixth

"We were in that situation and people were burning jerseys, however the fans continue attending," he commented

"The encouragement continues with the squad showing spirit. Get one or two wins, build momentum and things will change

"I'm aware that things changed from our previous struggles, achieving global success. Anything is possible"

Connected themes

• Rugby in Wales
• Wales Rugby Union
• International rugby