St Johnstone manager Derek McInnes does not believe Aberdeen's recent criticism of refereeing decisions worked against his side in their 2-1 Clydesdale Bank Premier League defeat.

The Dons are facing disciplinary action from the Scottish Football Association after fierce criticism of referee Steven Nicholls appeared in an unattributed article on the club's website in the wake of last week's 2-0 loss to Hibernian. The St Johnstone boss thought his side was unfortunate to concede a late penalty which was converted by Lee Miller to give the Dons victory.

McInnes said: "I don't know about that - that is for others to comment. Other people have indicated that. I'm just wanting the big decisions to get called right."

He added: "I think my club was very harshly treated, but I can't talk about last week - I can only talk about this week.

"I thought we were the better team in the second half so I'm really disappointed with the result. But I can't fault the players for the way they pressed for a winner when the match was at 1-1."

The Saints boss consoled himself with the fact that his side will go into the draw alongside St Mirren, Hearts and Rangers for the Co-operative Insurance Cup semi-finals tomorrow.

He added: "We will see who we get. It is something to look forward to.

"The matches aren't until the start of February so it is a long time away. Whoever we get we have an opportunity to progress to a final which is massive for our club."