March 13, 1955 - by 'Frustrated'

(20)

For those who saw the game in Boston tonight, this rant should come as no surprise. For those of you who missed it, you missed another incident adding to ongoing list of Maurice Richard’s violent offenses. At 15:11 of the 3rd period, the Rocket was involved in a skirmish with Bruin’s defenseman Hal Laycoe (14). Laycoe had highsticked Richard, cutting him just under his hairline (15). In retaliation, Richard skated towards Laycoe – who had dropped his stick and gloves prepared for a fight – and begin to strike Laycoe with his stick (15). After repeatedly striking Laycoe, linesman Cliff Thompson attempted to restrain the Rocket who appeared to be intoxicated with rage. After struggling with Thompson, Richard then proceeded to punch Thompson in the face (14). This is a blatant violation of both the rules and etiquette of the sport of hockey. This is not the first time Richard has been guilty of physical contact with an official. Recall the game against Toronto in December, when Richard slapped a referee in the face. Richard’s antics are unacceptable, and he needs to be made an example of. This is a classic case of the league superstar being given special treatment. I hope that Clarence Campbell takes this opportunity to enlist the type of punishment that only a former Major of the Fourth Canadian Armoured Division would have the nerve to (5).