The Springboks’ emphatic 73-0 victory over Wales in Cardiff on Saturday was at least somewhat overshadowed by an incident late in the game when Eben Etzebeth made contact with the eyes of Wales flank Alex Mann in a scuffle.
Etzebeth was shown a straight red card, and he is almost certainly in line to receive a hefty suspension after appearing at a disciplinary hearing that will likely take place this week.
YOU CAN SEE THE INCIDENT INVOLVING THE SPRINGBOK STAR BELOW
After the game, Rassie Erasmus was at a loss for words over what happened.
“I don’t know what I can say now that won’t be controversial,” said Erasmus at the post-match press conference. “It didn’t look good. I think it justified the red card.
“How it happened and why it happened initially was … I don’t know if ‘provoked’ is the right word …
“That’s definitely not the way we would have liked to end the game. It wasn’t good.”
Meanwhile, Siya Kolisi said Etzebeth had apologised.
“I’m sure he didn’t mean to do that on purpose. There’s no way,” Kolisi said. “Eben’s said sorry to the guy already. But I don’t want that to be the highlight of the day. It’s been a good day.”
Good win to end the year
The 73-0 victory marked the Springboks’ 13th out of 15 matches this season for a win record of 86.7%, and it also marked the most points scored under Erasmus’ guidance against Wales.
“I’m very proud of the way we played,” said Erasmus.
“We never underestimated Wales, regardless of where they were in the world rankings, and their team as well, in general.
“I think Asenathi (Ntlabakanye) made the last turnover, and we are so glad guys like him, Zac (Porthen), and many others who haven’t played for us in a while. Their hunger showed today, and it was important for us to fight until the end.”
Comparing this encounter against Wales to their performances in the past, the Bok coach said they have been building steadily.
“We delivered a controlled performance today and we don’t have guys who just roll over,” said Erasmus.
“They take the shots, and tonight I thought it was one of the more clinical performances. We put our soul into the game, as opposed to trying to focus on their soul, because the Welsh are a very controlled team. That said, we know it can change in one game.”
