Colin Nish leapt to the defence of Ian Murray after his tackle left Aberdeen teenager Fraser Fyvie with suspected ankle ligament damage in Hibernian's last-gasp 2-0 win.

Dons boss Mark McGhee and his players criticised the strong challenge which saw the talented 16-year-old carried off on a stretcher towards the end of the controversial meeting at Easter Road.

Nish was certainly behind his team-mate, insisting Murray tackles just as hard in training as he said: "I saw it from 50 yards but I'm pretty sure he won the ball."

The visitors were left with nine men for the last half-hour as inexperienced referee Steven Nicholls red-carded Maurice Ross and Chris Maguire as well as dishing out six yellows.

But no action was taken against Murray to Aberdeen's displeasure. Their unhappiness was made worse when Hibs boss John Hughes, after reviewing post-match video footage, claimed his left-back had won the ball and Fyvie had twisted his ankle.

Nish added: "I think it was a great tackle, just typical Ian Murray. He got the ball, kicked it into our stand.

"It's unfortunate for the young boy if he's hurt as he's a great wee player and I'm sure he has got a bright future.

"But there is definitely no malice from Ian, that's what he's like on the training ground when he tackles me."

However, Pittodrie midfielder Gary McDonald had a different view and added: "I know Ian well and I don't think he is a malicious lad.

"But he's an experienced pro and I think he saw the chance to take everything. He won the ball, but there are ways of winning it."