Claim: Carl Dale made his debut as a substitute in the opening game of the 1988–89 season against Blackpool, which he ended the season with 24 goals to his name.
Evidence: He made his debut as a substitute in the opening game of the 1988–89 season against Blackpool, with his first goal following a fortnight later against Bristol City. He ended the season with 24 goals to his name, with 22 of them coming in league matches as he struck up a successful forward partnership with Steve Johnson.