Former NHL tough guy refuses to be disrespected during AHL game

A professional hockey player will meet many teammates throughout their career. With so many different personalities in a room not everyone is going to get along. Last night, former Marlie Joseph Duszak crossed the line with Kyle Clifford and paid dearly for it.

Duszak and his Springfield Thunderbirds were hosting the Marlies in what turned out to be a 5-1 triumph for the home team. With the score 3-1, midway through the third period, Duszak scored a nice wrap around goal and then celebrated in front of the Toronto bench. Some harsh chirps were exchanged that set the veteran Clifford off.


On the very next shift, Clifford challenged Duszak to a fight. The Thunderbirds defenceman attempted to decline the violent offer but Clifford wouldn't take no for an answer. The former NHLer Clifford laid some punches forcing Duszak to turtle.



Clifford let out his frustration on Duszak and was given four minutes for roughing and a game misconduct for his efforts. Good on Clifford for refusing to take the disrespect with the game getting out of hand on the scoresheet.

The Marlies sit fourth in the North division with 61 points.