It’s my Parting Shot for my reactions to the headlines in today’s Star-Phoenix Sports Section…..

First headline…Why did the Roughriders take so many penalties? My reaction…two explanations as far as I’m concerned. One – Many, not all but, many Saskatchewan players came into the game feeling pretty good about their 2-0 start and wanted to shove it down the throats of the defending Grey Cup champs at home with their 0-2 record! Not a good look at all, especially with all the flags for misconduct from all the chirping at the Argos that led to all the pushing, shoving and punches!! Two – there is a discipline problem in general in the C-F-L when it comes to taunting. And, it has to stop! I dislike players on offence making plays and going at a defender or being demonstrative, complete with inappropriate gyrations that belong in a night club! Or, defenders doing the same thing for knocking down a pass or making a big hit! The latter is even more ridiculous when your team is losing and the big hit is made after a sizeable gain or a first down achieved! Check out the game situation and score, bro! You look stupid!! I realize the game is physical and that emotions can run high, but Corey Mace and the Green and White coaches need to re-read the franchise’s “Code of Conduct” to the group – if that document still exists!!

Next headline…Linebacker A-J Allen is proving he has game, Whether on the gridiron or at the console, the veteran has shown exceptional skill. Reaction…First and foremost, he’s Canadian – a big help with the ratio while playing the position he does. And, he has a knack for making big plays at the biggest time – like a sack in Toronto this past Friday and a pick-six in the West semi-final against B-C last year! A-J Allen needs to stay as a starter with the Riders!!

Last headline…Big Game Hunter chasing his U-F-C dream, Saskatoon scrapper knows there’s several different paths to the big league. My reaction…that’s a nice story penned by my pal from the Star-Phoenix Darren Zary. But, don’t expect me to attend an M-M-A event or accept an invite to watch a pay-per-view showing of the brutal sport. As much as I grew up in the days when fighting in hockey was expected and brought fans to the game, those fights happened as a result of on-ice happenings – at least more often than not! I don’t like violence for the sake of violence and call it sport! That’s a concussion, or worse, waiting to happen! Not for me!!

That’s my Parting Shot. I’m Les Lazaruk…and it turned out nice again!