'It didn't look good' - Springboks coach reacts to Etzebeth red card

Springboks action photo

The veteran lock has won back-to-back global titles for his nation

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South Africa manager the national team coach admitted "the visual impression was poor" following legendary lock the towering player was dismissed for an eye gouge against Wales

South Africa's national team achieved a perfect autumn series with a dominant performance at the Welsh capital registering multiple scores during a comprehensive shutout

Yet nearly the last action of the annual campaign involved the lock forward, who scored the concluding points being dismissed from the official the match referee

The experienced player received a dismissal for making contact the eye area of opponent Alex Mann using his thumb in a 79th-minute scuffle

"I'm uncertain what I can say without causing debate. The appearance was poor and it was a legitimate dismissal," commented the coach

"The way it unfolded and why it happened, and if he was provoked, it's unclear, yet it's absolutely not how we preferred to finish the contest. I believe it appeared favorable"

Etzebeth, who expanded his cap achievement when winning a 141st cap in Wales, looks certain to receive a prolonged period out

His club side start their European competition at Toulouse early December prior to a domestic match versus the English club plus local rivalries over the festive period

South Africa's disciplined power

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

The current management's period has begun with multiple significant losses to South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina and a last-gasp win versus the Asian side

The Welsh team has suffered numerous losses in current form but the coach attempted to give reassurance

"In my opinion the squad has been progressing and improving, this demonstrated a controlled performance," he commented

"Wales are not players who surrender easily yield to pressure, they fight until the end. This was one of the really clinical performances and us putting our soul out on the game"

"The Welsh possess a quality leader and will rebound. We understand it can change like the 1998 example we beat them (comprehensively) and then lost the following year"

The national team conclude the season ranked first globally having secured back-to-back Rugby Championship titles

The world champions have displayed their extensive squad strength and prowess but the coach referenced when they were ranked sixth

"We experienced similar circumstances with fans destroying merchandise, but the Welsh people are here," he commented

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

"I recognize that situations transformed from 2016, when we were nowhere, to 2019 when we won the World Cup. Potential remains unlimited"

Related topics

  • Welsh Rugby
  • National organization
  • International rugby
Brandy Hicks
Brandy Hicks

A passionate football journalist with over a decade of experience covering Italian soccer, specializing in Turin-based clubs and their impact on the sport.