Collins is frustrated by Hibs lack of finishing power

Despite enjoying plenty of possession, Hibs wasted numerous chances to secure a final spot against Celtic.

"The first half was fairly even but we picked it up a bit in the second half and penned them in," he said.

"We're going through a period where we're lacking a cutting edge at the top of the pitch."

Interview: Hibernian manager John Collins

Interview: Hibernian player Scott Brown

Collins also appeared to have a dig at some of his players after reports last week suggested some of them are unhappy with his training methods.

Collins said: "You are learning all the time. I've learned who I can trust and who I can't trust.

We've had a difficult week, there was a lot of pressure on the players, but they've responded Hibs manager John Collins

"I ask football players to live their lives as professionals.

"I only want what's best for the players.

Collins continued: "Whenever I ask them to do something, it's for their benefit, they get the rewards in the end, they all know that.

"Maybe they let that slip through their minds during the week but deep down they know whatever I ask them to do is for their benefit as individuals and a collective unit."

The Hibs boss now hopes that peace has broken out at the Leith club.

"We've had a difficult week, there was a lot of pressure on the players, but they've responded," he said

"They stuck together, and the second half was a gutsy performance."