Rassie Erasmus Slams ‘Unequal’ Head-Strike Calls After Springboks’ Consecutive Reds
- The Springboks faced another setback as Franco Mostert received a red card, marking the second match in a row that a lock was sent off
- Rassie Erasmus voiced his concerns about how head-contact tackles were being judged, questioning the consistency of officiating
- The team had to adapt quickly after key players like Siya Kolisi and Ben-Jason Dixon were forced off, affecting both strategy and morale
Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus expressed his frustration after another key lock, Franco Mostert, was shown a red card during South Africa’s 32-14 win over Italy.
This marked the second successive match where a Springboks lock faced a permanent sending-off, following Lood de Jager’s red card against France the previous week.
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Erasmus highlighted the impact these decisions had on the team, particularly on captain Siya Kolisi, who had to leave the field earlier in the second half. He acknowledged that while referees followed protocol, the balance in how head strikes were adjudicated felt inconsistent.
He also noted the challenges of managing the game with players being forced off, emphasising the strain on both team strategy and individual players.
Springboks struggle with red cards
Erasmus reported that the team had to adjust quickly when Ben-Jason Dixon made his first Test appearance of the year, alongside Ruan Nortje covering lineout duties after Mostert’s dismissal.
Erasmus pointed out that the team’s pride in executing low tackles to avoid head contact had not prevented red cards, leaving players unsure of how to avoid such punishments.
He explained that while the 20-minute red card trial was intended to allow for review, in both cases, permanent red cards were issued, creating significant disruptions. Erasmus also expressed concern for players like Kolisi and Dixon, who bore the brunt of disciplinary decisions, adding that the team’s resilience allowed them to overcome these setbacks despite playing with fewer men.
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Erasmus questions officiating consistency
Erasmus conveyed disappointment that Mostert’s tackle was not referred to the Foul Play Review Officer, underlining the importance of consistent application of rules for head contact.
He noted that while referees cannot see everything in real time, the perceived unequal treatment of head strikes was a concern. Erasmus suggested that reviewing such incidents could help maintain fairness and protect players from unnecessary harsh penalties.
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Despite the challenges, Erasmus praised the Springboks’ character in securing victory against Italy, insisting that the team’s determination and adaptability were key to overcoming the setbacks caused by red cards.
The Springboks will play against Ireland next on Saturday, 22 November, and they will be aiming to keep up with the 100% winning record so far in the series.
Emotional Springbok tribute brings Bryan Habana to tears
Briefly News previously reported that former Springbok great Bryan Habana was moved by a powerful compilation video celebrating the national team’s remarkable journey in recent years.
The clip, which runs for just over three minutes, captures some of the most defining moments from the Springboks’ modern era, a period marked by unity, resilience, and two successive Rugby World Cup triumphs under Rassie Erasmus and Siya Kolisi.
Source: Briefly News
