'It didn't look good' - Springboks coach reacts to Etzebeth dismissal

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South Africa head coach the national team coach acknowledged "the visual impression was poor" in the wake of veteran forward the towering player was dismissed for an eye gouge versus the Welsh team

The Springboks secured a perfect autumn series with a dominant performance at the Welsh capital to score 11 tries resulting in a 73-0 win

Yet nearly the last action of the Test season was Etzebeth, who scored for the final score receiving a red card by referee the presiding official

The experienced player received a dismissal due to contact with the left eye of the Welsh player Alex Mann using his thumb in a match-ending incident

"It's difficult to say what to comment that won't be controversial. It didn't look good and it was a legitimate dismissal," commented the coach

"How it happened and why it happened, and if he was provoked, it's unclear, but it's definitely not the way we preferred to conclude the match. In my view it appeared favorable"

The second-row forward, who increased his national team milestone when winning cap number 141 in Cardiff, looks certain to be given an extended suspension

His domestic franchise start their continental tournament in France on Sunday, 7 December followed by a home fixture against Saracens and South African derbies over the festive period

The world champions overwhelmed their opponents in a fixture that was one-sided from the beginning

Steve Tandy's reign has commenced with three heavy autumn defeats against top-tier nations plus a narrow victory versus the Asian side

The Welsh team has suffered numerous losses in current form yet Erasmus tried to offer some comfort

"In my opinion the squad has been progressing and improving, this represented a disciplined display," he commented

"The Welsh are not players who surrender easily and take the shots, they compete throughout. This was an exceptionally precise display and us putting our soul out on the game"

"The Welsh possess a quality leader and will rebound. We understand situations can transform and in 1998 we defeated them (96-13) subsequently fell soon after"

The Springboks conclude the season top of world rugby following victories in back-to-back Rugby Championship titles

South Africa's team have showcased their impressive resources and capability but the coach referenced their previous lower ranking

"We were in that situation and supporters expressing anger, however the fans continue attending," he said

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

"I recognize that things changed from our previous struggles, achieving global success. Potential remains unlimited"

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