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Husselman rues `impossible task`

Flash Point: Chabal feels the pain as Nieuwenhuis walks

Namibia coach Hakkies Husselman was in philosophical mood following his side 87-10 defeat to France in Toulouse on Sunday evening.

The World Cup hosts scored 13 tries against a Namibian side reduced to 14 men after Jacques Nieuwenhuis was sent off for a high tackle on Sébastien Chabal on the 20-minute mark.

Husselman said the red card left his side with an impossible task and believes his troops did well to keep the score under 100.

Namibia's points came from a Emile Wessels drop-goal and a late interception try by Bratley Langenhoven in what was otherwise a long, hard night for the Africans.

"After 20 minutes, we were down to 14," said Husselman, who at 34 is the youngest coach at the tournament.

"I don't think any other side would have coped against a top team with 14 men like we did.

"The score should have been 120-0 because at our level we should not be able to compete against top sides when we have 14 men.

"France made a lot of mistakes but by the end of the game they had started getting into their rhythm.

"It was very hard to stop them at times. We did our best but with 14 guys it's very difficult.

"We are amateur players and to play two games like this succession is very hard."