'It appeared unfavorable' - Springboks coach discusses Eben Etzebeth red card

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South Africa head coach the national team coach acknowledged "the visual impression was poor" following legendary lock the towering player was dismissed for making contact with an opponent's eye against Wales

South Africa's national team secured an autumn clean sweep with a dominant performance in Cardiff registering 11 tries in a comprehensive shutout

Yet virtually the concluding moment of the Test season featured the veteran player, who went over for the final score being dismissed by referee the match referee

The experienced player received a dismissal due to contact with the left eye of Wales flanker the back-row forward using his thumb during late-game altercation

"It's difficult to say how to respond that avoids controversy. The visual was unfavorable therefore it became a justified red card," commented the coach

"How it happened and the reasons behind it, and if he was provoked, I cannot confirm, yet it's absolutely not the way we had hoped to end the game. I believe that the optics were great"

Etzebeth, who increased his cap achievement when winning cap number 141 in Wales, appears likely to face an extended suspension

His club side commence their European competition in France on Sunday, 7 December prior to a domestic match versus the English club including domestic clashes over the festive period

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

Steve Tandy's reign has commenced with multiple significant losses versus leading rugby powers and a last-gasp win versus the Asian side

The national side has experienced multiple defeats in recent games however the manager sought to offer some comfort

"I feel that we have been building and improving, this represented a measured showing," he said

"The Welsh are not guys that give up yield to pressure, they battle continuously. This demonstrated a remarkably efficient showing with our team displaying our soul out on the game"

"The Welsh possess a great coach and will rebound. We understand situations can transform like the 1998 example we overcame them (96-13) and then lost the following year"

The Springboks end the calendar ranked first globally following victories in successive tournament wins

South Africa's team have showcased their impressive resources and capability but the coach referenced when they were ranked sixth

"We experienced similar circumstances and people were burning jerseys, however the fans continue attending," he commented

"The backing exists with the squad showing spirit. Secure initial victories, create a streak and results will transform

"I recognize that situations transformed from 2016, when we were nowhere, achieving global success. All outcomes are achievable"

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• Rugby in Wales
• National organization
• International rugby