John Hughes has launched an astonishing attack on Andrew Dallas claiming that the Grade 1 referee is a young kid out of his depth.
The Inverness Caley Thistle boss was speaking after eight yellow and one red card was issued during the 1-1 draw away to St Johnstone.
Less than two weeks after enjoying the benefit of the mistakes from Steven McLean and Alan Muir, Hughes was on the warpath with an attack on Dallas that is likely to bring him a charge from the SFA.
“We did mention at half-time that we needed to watch what we were doing because the referee was lively,” the Inverness boss said.
“I think he had a poor match and I felt he was out of his depth. For us when we are trying to get that European spot in the league I think we deserve a little bit better than that.
“He is just a young kid learning his trade. I understand they have to get experience but I think we have to be looking at that. I have never seen as many bookings. It spoils the game and you cannot get a rhythm going.
“He came to speak to me because I was telling him to calm down and take it easy – I could see what was coming. If you keep flashing those cards for nothing then the inevitable is going to happen and unfortunately it came our way for David Raven, who is a good, honest boy.
“Raven in the first half when he retaliated was probably the only booking I saw in the whole game. We will have to just take it and get on with it.”
Celtic sent a letter to the SFA asking for an explanation of why they were denied a penalty against Inverness but 12 days later are still awaiting a reply.
Dallas, son of disgraced former referee Hugh, was an additional assistant referee at the Celtic v Inverness match at Hampden.