 Delve began his career with Queens Park Rangers and made 15 league appearances before a £30,000 transfer to Plymouth Argyle in 1974.He played regularly in the team that won promotion to the Second Division in the 1974–75 season and continued to feature often in the next two campaigns.Delve eventually lost his place in the side to Gary Megson and, after scoring six goals in 151 league and cup games, moved to Exeter City in 1978.