In a spectacular Premier League fixture at Selhurst Park earlier this season, Crystal Palace’s 3-0 victory against Burnley wasn’t the only highlight of the day for lifelong Palace fan, Daren Andrews, from Peterborough.

The 56-year-old lived every Palace fan’s dream after he won an extraordinary money-can’t-buy experience thanks to bet365, getting the amazing opportunity to go pitchside at Selhurst Park before the game and meet club legend John Salako.

On the day, Palace fans were invited to take part in bet365’s Never Ordinary Ticket Office experience, where fans could queue up to go inside and meet John Salako, who then showed them a compilation of iconic Palace highlights and challenged them to prove their fan knowledge by answering five questions.

After answering all five questions correctly, Daren emerged victorious and was whisked away to hospitality where he would receive an unparalleled behind-the-scenes fan experience. Mingling with the crowd pre-game, Daren then got the opportunity to walk through the matchday tunnel onto the Selhurst Park pitch, alongside the mascots, match officials, and team captains.

Daren’s dream day continued as he sat in the dugout and watched the players warm up right next to him, soaking in the electric matchday atmosphere. Sitting side by side with Crystal Palace’s new manager, Oliver Glasner, and having his name appear on the big screen at halftime announcing him as the winner, it was truly an unforgettable experience.

Reflecting on the extraordinary day, Daren said, “Being a season ticket holder for over 20 years, this was a dream come true. The atmosphere, being able to speak with John Salako for over an hour, and the chance to be on the pitch – it’s something I’ll cherish forever. My family’s love for Crystal Palace runs deep – my brother got married at Selhurst Park and my son was a mascot, so I’m thrilled that I finally got my turn to step onto the pitch!”

John Salako, Crystal Palace legend, shared his thoughts on the day: “It’s incredible to witness the joy on the faces of fans like Daren. bet365’s Never Ordinary campaign brings dreams to life, and I’m honoured to be a part of such special moments. Football is about creating memories, and today was a testament to that.”

The experience was part of bet365’s global advertising campaign, Never Ordinary, which allows fans an opportunity to experience the extraordinary and win money-can’t-buy experiences at sporting events, including horse racing, boxing, football, and more.

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