After helping Cliftonville end a 45-year wait for Irish Cup glory, the striker was stunned to see some fans had imprinted his image on arms, legs and torsos.
That idolisation came after Hale netted two extra-time goals to seal a 3-1 victory over Linfield before 15,000 fans at Windsor Park last May.
But no matter how much trophy success he has across the Irish Sea, the 26-year-old will never convince one relative he is the best finisher in the family Derry and Crusaders legend, grandad Danny.
Seven-goal Staggies' frontman Hale said: "My granddad, who is the main man, is getting on a bit now.
"But he never forgets any of his football stories. He talks about the goals he scored in and he likes to remind you of that! He's been a massive influence on my career and watches my goals online.
This story is from the November 09, 2024 edition of Daily Record.
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This story is from the November 09, 2024 edition of Daily Record.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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