Rugby fans – including countless South Africans – are calling for Springbok Eben Etzebeth to face the highest penalty after his eye gouge attack on a Welsh player.
Some even believe the show of brutality should mark the end of a career for the highest-capped player, who currently has 139 test caps.
The red-card attack overshadowed the Springboks’ 73-0 victory against Wales at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.
It comes several months after fellow Springbok Makazole Mapimpi was issued a three-match suspension after a similar incident against a Cardiff Rugby player.
CALLS FOR EBEN ETZBETH’S CAREER BAN AFTER EYE GOUGE ATTACK
With just seconds until the final whistle blew, Springbok Eben Etzebeth was sent off the field after being red-carded for eye gouging Wales flank Alex Mann.
The incident occurred in the 78th minute following a scuffle between the players.
The show of brutality was condemned by many online South African supporters and fans of the lock.
@Duke0fLondon: “This eye gauge by Eben Etzebeth is intentional and to be quite honest, it’s assault. I’ve long been an admirer, but this act is beyond sport and should lead to a criminal charge”.
@DanMonty93: “That is absolutely filthy. Should be banned for a long, long time.”
@ScutterBucket23: “Eben has ruined any reputation he has ever had. Committed the biggest act of thuggery on a rugby field. Will always be known as a scumbag based on that incident alone”.
@CharlieHerb9: “How can you be 73-0 up with two minutes to go and still gouge an opponent’s eye? Eben Etzebeth’s a nasty piece of work”.
Retired Springbok Bryan Habana – who has 124 test caps – also condemned Etzebeth.
He posted on X “As great a player and person as he is, there’s no room for that in the game. Justified red card and should be facing a lengthy time on the sidelines”.
HOW LONG COULD HE BE BANNED FOR EYE GOUGE ATTACK?
According to World Rugby [previously called the International Rugby Board], eye-gouging between players is a serious offence and is considered foul play.
The organisation defines foul play as “Anything a player does within the playing enclosure that is against the letter and spirit of the Laws of the game. It includes obstruction, unfair play, repeated infringements, dangerous play, and misconduct which is prejudicial to the game.”
Images via SuperSport
The offender can receive a sentence ranging from 4 weeks to a three-year ban if found guilty.
