Neil was a goalkeeper who played for Exeter City age group, youth and reserve teams from 1992 to 1994.

After leaving City Neil had a long non-league career notably at Buckland Athletic and Newton Abbot Spurs. He also played for Teignmouth as well as having a short spell at Tiverton. 

He was also assistant manager of Buckland to Richard Pears whilst working for a stonemasonry business near Newton Abbot.