Ryan Johnston

Follow TFC and the Champions League with Twitter. I will update from training, on match day and whenever news breaks.

First-year head coach Preki.

TFC's new coach asked only that his players play for each other, and against Seattle they responded.

The Reds wore white on Sunday; and through the cold rain and wind played like a team very few recognized.

Toronto FC displayed fluid, technical passing executed with purpose; all the while holding a one- and then two-goal lead over a team most consider its superior. Even the troublesome second 45 minutes -- a section of the game when TFC has surrendered seven of its 10 goals conceded -- passed without consequence.

It was a marvel to behold. Preki's system has fit like a square peg in a round hole since he arrived as the fourth coach in four years, but on Sunday the endless tinkering and reported lung-burning drills revealed its promise.

De Guzman sheds critics

The cherry on the afternoon for Toronto's designated player came in the dying moments of the second half, when Julian de Guzman took his place in a three-man wall defending a free kick in a dangerous position. One week ago, the diminutive Red bailed on his defensive-wall duties and facilitated a back-breaking goal to Colorado.

The key to de Guzman may be to challenge his status. That is, he excels when knowing there is a player of equal skill lined up across from him. Five seasons in Spain must be hard to forget for the one-time Deportivo La Coruna player of the year, but perhaps nearly a dozen games in to his MLS career, de Guzman finally accepts his role in a league perceived not to be for the true talents of Europe.

Consider on Sunday that the 29-year-old squared off with Seattle designated player Freddie Ljungberg, arguably the most-decorated European (currently not rehabbing a torn Achilles') this side of the pond. It was spirited duel, with both players flying into challenges while taking the time to offer a helping hand back up.

It does not seem like coincidence that de Guzman finally showed up on a day he knew there were those in attendance worthy of watching.

Large Frei

Much like de Guzman, Frei played to his competition on Sunday. Standing opposite to all-American hero Kasey Keller, the Reds' goalkeeper made a trio of game-saving stops. In only his second season as a pro, Frei's confidence is palpable. The quickness off his line is disconcerting to strikers, who are forced to make early decisions.

It'll be interesting to see if Preki stays with Frei for the Nutrilite or if veteran Jon Conway finally sees some minutes in Toronto. Check back Monday for a full preview of the Nutrilite Canadian Championship, which will be broadcast in its entirety on Sportsnet starting Wednesday.