AberDNA competition winners Colin Taylor and John Murray enjoyed an amazing trip to Atlanta at the weekend to see Atlanta United play Real Salt Lake at the spectacular Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The prize, which included return flights, accommodation and VIP hospitality at the game was kindly donated by AFC Director Dave Cormack, who lives in Atlanta and has seen the spectacular rise of what many describe as the most innovative franchise in Major League Soccer.

Atlanta United won the game 2–0 courtesy of goals from Julian Gressel and Hector Villalba in front of 72,017 fans. Atlanta United’s third consecutive win in the past eight days increased the team’s lead in the league and clinched a playoff spot.

Colin Taylor, a lifelong Dons fan based in Edinburgh said: “The whole trip was just fantastic. Dave Cormack picked us up at the airport himself and we were looked after so well from start to finish – we even managed to watch the Dons beat Motherwell on RedTV! The Mercedes-Benz stadium just blew me away.

“I did a tour the previous day but the whole matchday and hospitality experience and getting pitch side with Atlanta officials was once-in-a-lifetime stuff. The game itself was of a really high standard and the atmosphere and passion of the huge crowd really surprised me. It’s great to see our guys taking advice from the very best for our own development plans and the fan experience – it makes me excited with what will be possible at Kingsford.”

John Murray said: “l want to wholeheartedly thank Dave for an awesome experience. The stadium was designed around the fans and their families – good food, cold beer and a very cheerful, relaxing environment. It was a pleasure to meet the President of Atlanta United, Darren Eales, and everyone at the club welcomed us with open arms.”

Ahead of a visit to Scotland for the matches against Hibernian and Celtic, Dave Cormack said: “I’m thrilled to have been able to personally offer this special prize to Colin and John. Atlanta United – together with their remarkable stadium which is shared with the Atlanta Falcons NFL team – have taken the football world by storm, setting records and creating memorable moments on and off the field. Although they might not have the history we have at Aberdeen, there is a great deal they are doing right to engage their huge fan base and create a top-class matchday experience.”