'It appeared unfavorable' - Springboks coach on Eben Etzebeth sending off

• Released
  44 minutes ago
• Numerous reactions

Springboks manager Rassie Erasmus conceded "it didn't appear favorable" in the wake of experienced second-row the towering player received a red card for an eye gouge versus the Welsh team

The Springboks completed an autumn clean sweep with a dominant performance at the Welsh capital to score 11 tries in a 73-0 win

Nevertheless nearly the last action of the international year featured the veteran player, who scored the last try being dismissed through the decision of the presiding official

The 34-year-old was given a red card for making contact the facial region of the Welsh player the back-row forward using his thumb during late-game altercation

"I'm uncertain what I can say that avoids controversy. The appearance was poor and it was a legitimate dismissal," said Erasmus

"The way it unfolded and why it happened, and if he was provoked, I cannot confirm, however it's certainly not the way we had hoped to end the game. I don't think it appeared favorable"

Etzebeth, who expanded his cap achievement by earning his 141st appearance in Cardiff, looks certain to receive an extended suspension

His domestic franchise begin their continental tournament in France on Sunday, 7 December before a home game against Saracens and South African derbies over the festive period

The top-ranked team overwhelmed their opponents throughout the contest that was one-sided from the off

The current management's period has started with three heavy autumn defeats versus leading rugby powers plus a narrow victory against Japan

Wales have lost numerous losses in current form but the coach attempted to give reassurance

"I believe our team has been developing and building up, this demonstrated a controlled performance," he said

"The Welsh are not a team that just roll over accept defeat, they battle continuously. This demonstrated one of the really clinical performances and us putting total dedication"

"The team includes an excellent manager and shall return. We know situations can transform like the 1998 example we overcame them (by a huge margin) and then lost the following year"

South Africa conclude the season ranked first globally after winning consecutive southern hemisphere crowns

South Africa's team have demonstrated their extensive squad strength and prowess but the coach referenced when they were ranked sixth

"We experienced similar circumstances and supporters expressing anger, yet Welsh supporters remain," he commented

"The encouragement continues and the team demonstrates determination. Get one or two wins, get on a roll and results will transform

"I know that things changed from 2016, when we were nowhere, to 2019 when we won the World Cup. Anything is possible"

Connected themes

• Rugby in Wales
• Wales Rugby Union
• The sport