McFarlane was a forward who was selected for Liverpool's first team on just two occasions, the first coming in the Anfield 'derby' with Everton on 9 February 1929, which the visitors won 2-1. Gordon Hodgson was missing so the "Scottish boy who has been doing so well with the Reserves, will lead the attack." The Daily Courier claimed that he "led the line with excellent judgement, and was a masterpiece at nipping between the backs with the ball at toe." McFarlane had to wait until the following September for his second appearance, which resulted in another defeat by three goals to nil at Huddersfield Town.