'It appeared unfavorable' - Springboks coach reacts to Etzebeth sending off

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Springboks manager the national team coach conceded "the visual impression was poor" following legendary lock the towering player was sent off for an eye gouge against Wales

The Springboks achieved an autumn clean sweep through overwhelming play at the Welsh capital to score eleven touchdowns resulting in a 73-0 win

Yet almost the final act of the Test season involved the lock forward, who crossed the concluding points receiving a red card through the decision of the match referee

The 34-year-old was given a red card for touching the eye area of the Welsh player Alex Mann with his thumb during late-game altercation

"I'm uncertain how to respond that won't be controversial. The appearance was poor making it a proper sending-off," stated the manager

"How it happened and why it happened, and if he was provoked, I am not sure, yet it's absolutely not the way that we would have liked to finish the contest. I believe that the optics were great"

Etzebeth, who extended his Springboks record through receiving his 141st appearance in Wales, appears likely to be given a prolonged period out

His club side begin their continental tournament in France this coming weekend before a home game versus the English club including domestic clashes over the festive period

The reigning titleholders dominated the Welsh throughout the contest that became unbalanced from the off

Steve Tandy's reign has commenced following substantial reverses against top-tier nations and a last-gasp win against Japan

Wales have lost numerous losses in current form but the coach attempted to provide encouragement

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

"Wales are not a team who surrender easily yield to pressure, they battle continuously. This demonstrated an exceptionally precise display with our team displaying total dedication"

"The team includes a great coach and will rebound. We know fortunes can reverse and in 1998 we defeated them (by a huge margin) then were defeated soon after"

South Africa finish the year top of world rugby having secured consecutive southern hemisphere crowns

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

"We were in that situation and people were burning jerseys, yet Welsh supporters remain," he commented

"There is the support and the players have the fight. Secure initial victories, get on a roll and circumstances will improve

"I'm aware that fortunes reversed from 2016, when we were nowhere, culminating in the 2019 championship. Anything is possible"

Associated subjects

• Welsh Rugby
• Wales Rugby Union
• International rugby