'It didn't look good' - Springboks coach on Eben Etzebeth red card

• Released
  Less than an hour ago
• Numerous reactions

Springboks manager the national team coach admitted "the optics weren't great" after legendary lock Eben Etzebeth received a red card due to eye contact against Wales

South Africa's national team completed an autumn clean sweep through overwhelming play at the Welsh capital registering multiple scores resulting in a comprehensive shutout

Yet nearly the last action of the international year involved the lock forward, who scored for the final score receiving a red card from the official the match referee

The 34-year-old was given a sending-off due to contact with the left eye of the Welsh player the back-row forward via digital contact in a match-ending incident

"It's difficult to say how to respond without causing debate. The appearance was poor therefore it became a legitimate dismissal," stated the manager

"The manner it occurred and what prompted it, and if he was provoked, it's unclear, however it's certainly not the way we had hoped to end the game. I believe it appeared favorable"

The experienced player, who expanded his national team milestone by earning a 141st cap in Wales, looks certain to be given a prolonged period out

His domestic franchise begin their Champions Cup campaign at Toulouse on Sunday, 7 December before a home game versus the English club including domestic clashes during the holidays

The world champions overpowered Wales during the match which proved lopsided from the start

The new coach's tenure has begun with multiple significant losses to South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina and a last-gasp win facing the Brave Blossoms

The Welsh team has suffered multiple defeats in recent games however the manager sought to offer some comfort

"In my opinion our team has been developing and improving, this represented a disciplined display," he said

"Wales are not a team who surrender easily accept defeat, they fight until the end. This was a remarkably efficient showing featuring our squad exhibiting maximum commitment"

"Wales have a great coach and shall return. We understand it can change like the 1998 example we overcame them (96-13) then were defeated the following year"

The Springboks end the calendar top of world rugby having secured successive tournament wins

The world champions have showcased their formidable depth and power but the coach referenced their previous lower ranking

"Our team faced comparable conditions and people were burning jerseys, yet Welsh supporters remain," he noted

"The encouragement continues with the squad showing spirit. Achieve early successes, build momentum and results will transform

"I'm aware that things changed from our previous struggles, culminating in the 2019 championship. Potential remains unlimited"

Associated subjects

• Rugby in Wales
• Wales Rugby Union
• The sport