Son of a colliery 'fireman', Wally had played for both Mexborough and Denaby United before making four league appearances for Sheffield United from where he joined Exeter City in 1920.

Playing in the club’s first Football League campaign he had just five outings starting with the game against Norwich City on 8 September 1920. Three of his appearances came right at the end of the season.

Released at the end of the season Wally returned for Denaby United (and later Wath Athletic) before another stint in the Football League with Blackburn Rovers for whom he appeared on nine occasions. Moving to Southend United in 1926 he added another five goals in 13 league outings ahead of final spells with Denaby United (once more) and Wombwell.

Wally Brayshaw died aged thirty-seven in Sheffield in 1935.