'It appeared unfavorable' - Springboks coach reacts to Eben Etzebeth dismissal

Springboks match image

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

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Springboks head coach the national team coach acknowledged "it didn't appear favorable" following experienced second-row the towering player was dismissed for making contact with an opponent's eye against Wales

The Springboks secured a perfect autumn series through overwhelming play at the Welsh capital registering multiple scores during a comprehensive shutout

Yet almost the final act of the international year involved the lock forward, who scored the last try being dismissed by referee the presiding official

The veteran forward was given a dismissal due to contact the facial region of the Welsh player Alex Mann via digital contact during late-game altercation

"I don't know how to respond that avoids controversy. The appearance was poor making it a legitimate dismissal," stated the manager

"The manner it occurred and what prompted it, and if he was provoked, it's unclear, yet it's absolutely not the manner we had hoped to conclude the match. In my view the visual impression was positive"

The second-row forward, who increased his cap achievement when winning cap number 141 in Wales, seems destined to face a lengthy ban

His Sharks team start their Champions Cup campaign against the French side this coming weekend prior to a domestic match versus the English club including domestic clashes over the festive period

The champions' measured intensity

The world champions dominated the Welsh during the match that was one-sided from the beginning

Steve Tandy's reign has begun with three heavy autumn defeats versus leading rugby powers plus a narrow victory versus the Asian side

The Welsh team has suffered multiple defeats in recent games however the manager sought to provide encouragement

"In my opinion our team has been developing and improving, this represented a controlled performance," he said

"Wales are not players that just roll over accept defeat, they fight until the end. This represented a remarkably efficient showing and us putting total dedication"

"The team includes an excellent manager and will come back. We understand fortunes can reverse and in 1998 we defeated them (comprehensively) subsequently fell in 1999"

The national team finish the year top of world rugby following victories in successive tournament wins

The Springboks have displayed their extensive squad strength and capability yet Erasmus pointed to when they were ranked sixth

"We were in that situation and people were burning jerseys, but the Welsh people are here," he commented

"There is the support with the squad showing spirit. Secure initial victories, get on a roll and things will change

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

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Keith Peterson
Keith Peterson

A certified wellness coach and nutritionist passionate about holistic health and empowering others to live their best lives.