Defiant Tam McManus insists Bobby Madden was not biased against Rangers or Celtic – but is just an "average" referee.
The whistler has been among the leading talking points coming out of the blockbuster Scottish Cup showdown.
Both sides of the Glasgow divide were left baffled by some of the big calls at Hampden as Rangers reached the showpiece final.
However, former Hibs striker McManus doesn't believe the showing should fuel any conspiracy theories.
He reckons the officials will continue to struggle until the SFA appoint full-time referees.
McManus told The PLZ Football Show: "I don't think the referees are biased, I think they are poor. I hate saying that, because I know they work hard at their craft and they are not full-time.
"I hate being critical but it's hard when you are watching a performance like that, but it didn't affect the result.
"I think full-time it has got to be an improvement. Some of the referees and linesmen weren't up with play. You can't see it if you're miles away.
"He (Bobby Madden) was poor. I think it was the same with (John) Beaton during the Hibs and Hearts game. I know Rangers and Celtic fans in particular say they are biased, but in my opinion they are just average referees."
