'The optics were poor' - Erasmus on Eben Etzebeth sending off

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South Africa leader Rassie Erasmus acknowledged "the visual impression was poor" after veteran forward Eben Etzebeth was sent off for an eye gouge in the match with Wales

South Africa's national team secured a perfect autumn series with a dominant performance at the Welsh capital registering 11 tries during a 73-0 win

However almost the final act of the international year involved the lock forward, who went over for the final score receiving a red card through the decision of the presiding official

The veteran forward was given a dismissal due to contact with the left eye of Wales flanker the back-row forward via digital contact in a 79th-minute scuffle

"I don't know how to respond that won't be controversial. The appearance was poor making it a justified red card," said Erasmus

"The way it unfolded and what prompted it, and if he was provoked, it's unclear, however it's certainly not the manner that we would have liked to finish the contest. I don't think that the optics were great"

The experienced player, who increased his cap achievement by earning cap number 141 during the match, seems destined to receive a lengthy ban

His club side start their Champions Cup campaign in France on Sunday, 7 December prior to a domestic match against Saracens including domestic clashes through the Christmas season

The reigning titleholders dominated the Welsh during the match which proved lopsided from the start

The current management's period has begun with multiple significant losses versus leading rugby powers and a last-gasp win against Japan

The Welsh team has suffered multiple defeats in recent games yet Erasmus tried to provide encouragement

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

"Wales are not guys who surrender easily accept defeat, they fight until the end. This was an exceptionally precise display featuring our squad exhibiting total dedication"

"The Welsh possess a great coach and will rebound. We understand fortunes can reverse like the 1998 example we overcame them (comprehensively) and then lost soon after"

South Africa conclude the season as the number one side having secured successive tournament wins

The Springboks have demonstrated their formidable depth and power yet Erasmus pointed to their previous lower ranking

"Our team faced comparable conditions with fans destroying merchandise, yet Welsh supporters remain," he commented

"There is the support and the team demonstrates determination. Get one or two wins, build momentum and circumstances will improve

"I know that fortunes reversed from our previous struggles, to 2019 when we won the World Cup. Anything is possible"

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