A Northern Ireland International with two caps, Dave had started his career with Distillery in Belfast before signing for Liverpool in 1925 where he made 31 league appearances in three seasons. He then moved to the United States to play for New York Giants ahead of returning to Ireland with Belfast Celtic. It was from there that he signed for Exeter City in May 1929. 

Dave's debut for the Grecians came in a 2-2 draw at home to Luton Town but, after losing his place after a dozen games, he didn’t return until a run of seven matches towards the end of the season with the final one being as goalkeeper when both regular ‘keepers were unavailable. Having taken over from the injured John Alderson during the previous match, he played the entire ninety minutes of the 4-0 home defeat against Newport County on 26 April 1930 without wearing either cap or gloves.

After leaving Exeter, Dave returned to play for Distillery and thereafter Lawnview and Carrickfergus.