'The optics were poor' - Erasmus reacts to Eben Etzebeth dismissal

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Springboks manager Rassie Erasmus admitted "the visual impression was poor" in the wake of experienced second-row Eben Etzebeth was dismissed for making contact with an opponent's eye in the match with Wales

South Africa's national team secured a flawless end-of-year tour through overwhelming play in Cardiff to score 11 tries in a 73-0 win

Nevertheless almost the final act of the international year featured the veteran player, who went over the last try being dismissed from the official the presiding official

The experienced player was shown a red card for making contact with the left eye of the Welsh player the back-row forward with his thumb in a 79th-minute scuffle

"It's difficult to say how to respond without causing debate. The appearance was poor and it was a justified red card," said Erasmus

"The manner it occurred and what prompted it, if he was instigated, I cannot confirm, but it's definitely not the way that we would have liked to end the game. I believe it appeared favorable"

Etzebeth, who extended his Springboks record by earning a 141st cap in Wales, appears likely to be given an extended suspension

His Sharks team commence their continental tournament at Toulouse this coming weekend before a home game against Saracens and South African derbies over the festive period

The top-ranked team overwhelmed their opponents in a fixture which proved lopsided from the beginning

Steve Tandy's reign has started following substantial reverses against top-tier nations alongside a late triumph versus the Asian side

The national side has experienced 21 of their last 23 Test matches yet Erasmus tried to give reassurance

"I believe the squad has been progressing and improving, this represented a disciplined display," he said

"The Welsh team are not a team that just roll over and take the shots, they battle continuously. This represented a remarkably efficient showing and us putting our soul out on the game"

"The team includes a great coach and will come back. We understand it can change and in 1998 we defeated them (comprehensively) and then lost soon after"

The national team end the calendar ranked first globally having secured successive tournament wins

South Africa's team have showcased their impressive resources and power yet Erasmus pointed to their former position

"We were in that situation and supporters expressing anger, but the Welsh people are here," he said

"The backing exists and the team demonstrates determination. Achieve early successes, get on a roll and things will change

"I recognize that situations transformed from our previous struggles, achieving global success. Potential remains unlimited"

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• Wales national team
• National organization
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