Ex-Real striker set to face old 'mates

Jeff Cunningham had a delicate love-hate relationship with Real Salt Lake's fans during his relatively short stint in Utah. The RSL faithful loved him for all of the good things he did but became increasingly frustrated with the enigmatic striker, believing he could've given more.

Through it all, he was still one of the good guys, a player they cheered passionately, knowing he could change the complexion of a game at any moment.

Don't expect many conflicted fans tonight when Cunningham, the villain, makes his Rice-Eccles Stadium return as a member of expansion club Toronto FC.

Cunningham is sure to receive a smattering of cheers and boos when he's introduced prior to tonight's kickoff at 8, but expect Cunningham to have a big grin on his face either way.

"I'm 30 years old, a veteran at this; I don't take anything personal anymore," said Cunningham. "Fans here were very supportive of me and I enjoyed my time while I was here."

Cunningham was one of last year's MLS MVP finalists after finishing with 16 goals and 11 assists for Real Salt Lake. The 2007 season got off to a decent start as he tallied three goals in seven games, but it wasn't enough for new coach Jason Kreis.

Cunningham was shipped to Toronto FC on May 22 for Alecko Eskandarian and a 2008 first-round draft pick, a trade both parties have been pleased with thus far. RSL is 1-2-2 since the trade while Toronto is 2-2-2.

Cunningham said he feels more comfortable with his new team, because he doesn't have to shoulder the bulk of Toronto's scoring load like he did with Real Salt Lake.

That may be true, but Cunningham should be extra motivated for tonight's match, and RSL's primary objective defensively will surely be to contain him.

"We know about Jeff, we know he's extremely dangerous, we know he's extremely fast, we know from watching their games that he's getting in behind defenses, and we have to be aware of that," said Kreis.

As a player who's been shipped around the league numerous times himself, RSL's Andy Williams knows his team has to be even more conscious of Cunningham.

"He's going to want to prove a point. I felt that same way whenever I got traded," said Williams. "We're prepared for it and hopefully we can keep him off the board."

If they're successful, a two-game winning streak might be in Real's future.