Motherwell boss Graham Alexander was puzzled as to why Liam Donnelly was sent packing for his two challenges against Hibs - when opposing players were getting off lightly.
The Steelmen played out an uneventful 0-0 Premiership draw with their rivals for European football at Fir Park. They remain fourth.
Kevin Van Veen missed a big opportunity for Motherwell in the first half before Christian Doidge missed an equally important chance for the away side.
But the biggest talking point sprung from Donnelly's dismissal. The midfielder had already been booked before another tackle saw him shown a second yellow card by referee Andrew Dallas.
Within 30 seconds his manager had joined him down the tunnel for his protests. Dallas didn't explain to Alexander why he had been given his marching orders.
Alexander said: "Referees are there to make decisions. Liam Donnelly has made two fouls all game. Their centre-back's made foul after foul in the first half and only got a warning.
"That is where my frustration lies. That's what it was really. I was frustrated. I thought Liam was harshly dealt with in the second yellow card.
"He had a clean game and then to get sent off in a game where both teams were competing really well... I didn't see any malice all game. It's a harsh decision I feel and I made my viewpoint. But obviously I am not allowed."
The 'Well boss was pleased with how his side battled away against Hibs, and says it was them creating the chances prior to Donnelly's red card.
He added: "We held out after we went down to 10 men but we weren't holding out before that. We were the team who were having the chances.
"We made their keeper make saves and I don't think we conceded a shot on target. I thought we played really well but when it goes to 10 men with 20 minutes to go, it's tough.
"But even after that, we still threatened to score the winner. I am really proud of my players who made a good team work exceptionally hard.
"We kept running and running. We kept our discipline and the point was the least we deserved."
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