'It appeared unfavorable' - Springboks coach on Etzebeth sending off

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South Africa head coach the national team coach conceded "it didn't appear favorable" in the wake of veteran forward Eben Etzebeth was sent off for an eye gouge in the match with Wales

South Africa's national team secured an autumn clean sweep by going on the rampage during the match to score multiple scores in a 73-nil victory

Yet nearly the last action of the annual campaign involved the lock forward, who went over for the final score receiving a red card through the decision of the presiding official

The experienced player received a red card for touching the facial region of opponent Alex Mann using his thumb during late-game altercation

"I don't know what I can say that avoids controversy. The appearance was poor and it was a justified red card," stated the manager

"How it happened and what prompted it, if he was instigated, I cannot confirm, yet it's absolutely not the way we had hoped to finish the contest. In my view it appeared favorable"

The second-row forward, who extended his cap achievement through receiving cap number 141 in Wales, appears likely to be given a prolonged period out

His domestic franchise commence their Champions Cup campaign in France this coming weekend before a home game versus the English club including domestic clashes during the holidays

The top-ranked team overpowered Wales in a fixture that was one-sided from the off

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

Wales have lost multiple defeats in recent games but the coach attempted to provide encouragement

"In my opinion that we have been building and improving, this represented a measured showing," he said

"The Welsh are not a team that give up accept defeat, they battle continuously. This demonstrated a remarkably efficient showing and us putting maximum commitment"

"Wales have a great coach and will come back. We know fortunes can reverse like the 1998 example we beat them (96-13) subsequently fell soon after"

The Springboks conclude the season top of world rugby having secured consecutive southern hemisphere crowns

South Africa's team have showcased their extensive squad strength and prowess yet Erasmus pointed to their previous lower ranking

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

"There is the support with the squad showing spirit. Secure initial victories, create a streak and things will change

"I recognize that fortunes reversed from 2016, when we were nowhere, to 2019 when we won the World Cup. All outcomes are achievable"

Associated subjects

• Wales national team
• Wales Rugby Union
• Rugby Union