'It didn't look good' - Springboks coach reacts to Etzebeth red card
The veteran lock has won back-to-back global titles for his nation
- Posted44 minutes ago
- Numerous reactions
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
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