Matt Doherty, Sr. is a former Northern Irish professional association football player.
An attacking half-back, noted for his footwork and passing, Doherty was one of Derry City FC's early stars. During his time at the Brandywell he picked up winner's medals in the City Cup and North-West Cup, played in Derry's 0–2 defeat to Linfield FC in the 1936 Irish Cup final, and in 1938 came within a whisker of helping the club to their first league title, Derry losing 1–3 to Belfast Celtic in a replayed title-deciding test match.
1937–38 was perhaps Doherty's finest season, selected by both Ireland and the Irish League as a representative. In September 1937 he came extremely close to signing for Burnley FC before Derry rejected their £1,000 offer. He did finally leave the Brandywell in 1941, joining Shamrock Rovers in the League of Ireland, though he returned to Derry after World War II and finally tasted success in the Irish Cup.
Doherty, who also managed the club for a spell from late 1959 until the end of the 1960-61 Irish League season, is father to Matt Jr. who also later went on to play for Derry.
| Preceded by Tommy Houston |
Derry City F.C. manager 1959-1961 |
Succeeded by Willie Ross |
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