'It appeared unfavorable' - Erasmus reacts to Eben Etzebeth sending off

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South Africa head coach Rassie Erasmus admitted "the optics weren't great" after veteran forward the towering player received a red card due to eye contact against Wales

The Springboks achieved a perfect autumn series through overwhelming play during the match netting 11 tries in a comprehensive shutout

However almost the final act of the international year featured the veteran player, who scored for the final score getting sent off by referee the presiding official

The veteran forward was given a sending-off for making contact with the left eye of the Welsh player Alex Mann via digital contact in a 79th-minute scuffle

"I'm uncertain what to comment without causing debate. The appearance was poor therefore it became a legitimate dismissal," stated the manager

"How it happened and the reasons behind it, and if he was provoked, it's unclear, however it's certainly not how we preferred to finish the contest. In my view it appeared favorable"

Etzebeth, who increased his national team milestone by earning a 141st cap in Cardiff, appears likely to be given an extended suspension

His club side start their European competition in France early December prior to a domestic match against Saracens and South African derbies over the festive period

The world champions overwhelmed their opponents during the match which proved lopsided from the off

Steve Tandy's reign has commenced following substantial reverses versus leading rugby powers and a last-gasp win facing the Brave Blossoms

The Welsh team has suffered multiple defeats in recent games yet Erasmus tried to offer some comfort

"I feel the squad has been progressing and building up, this demonstrated a measured showing," he commented

"Wales are not players who surrender easily and take the shots, they fight until the end. This was one of the really clinical performances featuring our squad exhibiting maximum commitment"

"The team includes a great coach and shall return. We understand situations can transform and in 1998 we beat them (96-13) then were defeated soon after"

The national team conclude the season ranked first globally after winning back-to-back Rugby Championship titles

South Africa's team have demonstrated their formidable depth and prowess but the coach referenced their previous lower ranking

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

"The backing exists and the team demonstrates determination. Get one or two wins, create a streak and things will change

"I'm aware that fortunes reversed starting from a low base in 2016, achieving global success. Anything is possible"

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