In rugby union (RU), he played as a number eight, fly-half, centre, wing and fullback.
Silva began playing rugby aged 7 at St Albans RFC as a number eight, he played and scored a try in Cardiff schools Under-11s 8–4 victory over Bridgend schools Under-11s in the DC Thomas cup final at Cardiff Arms Park.
He ended his playing career aged 39 as a player-coach at Llantwit Major RFC as a fly-half.
Silva was signed to Halifax by Peter Roe, he broke his leg in the 20–27 defeat by Salford in the Second Division Premiership Trophy Final at Old Trafford on 12 May 1991, and subsequently left Halifax after Roger Millward became coach.
He also coached Old Illtydians RFC, a feeder club of the Blues and his former high school team.