'It appeared unfavorable' - Erasmus reacts to Eben Etzebeth dismissal

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Springboks manager the national team coach acknowledged "the optics weren't great" following veteran forward Eben Etzebeth received a red card due to eye contact against Wales

South Africa's national team secured a perfect autumn series by going on the rampage during the match registering eleven touchdowns resulting in a comprehensive shutout

However nearly the last action of the Test season involved the lock forward, who scored the concluding points receiving a red card from the official Luc Ramos

The experienced player was shown a dismissal for making contact with the left eye of the Welsh player the back-row forward with his thumb in a match-ending incident

"I don't know what I can say without causing debate. The appearance was poor and it was a justified red card," commented the coach

"How it happened and what prompted it, and if he was provoked, I cannot confirm, but it's definitely not the way we preferred to finish the contest. I believe the visual impression was positive"

Etzebeth, who increased his Springboks record by earning a 141st cap in Cardiff, seems destined to be given an extended suspension

His club side commence their continental tournament in France on Sunday, 7 December before a home game facing the London side plus local rivalries 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 started with multiple significant losses to South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina alongside a late triumph facing the Brave Blossoms

The national side has experienced 21 of their last 23 Test matches yet Erasmus tried to give reassurance

"I believe the squad has been progressing and building up, this represented a disciplined display," he commented

"The Welsh are not a team that just roll over yield to pressure, they fight until the end. This demonstrated one of the really clinical performances featuring our squad exhibiting total dedication"

"The Welsh possess a great coach and shall return. We know it can change as demonstrated in 1998 we overcame them (comprehensively) subsequently fell the following year"

The national team end the calendar top of world rugby after winning successive tournament wins

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

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

"The backing exists and the players have the fight. Secure initial victories, build momentum and results will transform

"I'm aware that situations transformed from our previous struggles, achieving global success. All outcomes are achievable"

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