He has played at representative level for England (Academy, 2008 tour of Australia) he started his career at Kells, and at club level for Whitehaven (three spells, including the second during 2009, and the third during 2010 on loan from Huddersfield Giants), Huddersfield Giants, Oldham (dual registration), Barrow Raiders (loan), Leigh Centurions, (two spells), Whitehaven RLFC and in the Betfred Championship for Bradford Bulls, as a goal-kicking fullback, stand-off or scrum-half.
[2][3] McNally was born in Whitehaven, Cumbria, England, he has Irish ancestors, and eligible to play for Ireland due to the grandparent rule.
At the Leigh Centurions McNally won 1 Northern Rail Cup, 3 League Leaders' Shield, and 1 Kingstone Press Championship Grand Final.
Despite Ireland coming fourth of four McNally was the top points scorer of the competition.
In 2016 he was called up to the Ireland squad for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup European Pool B qualifiers.