Doherty, a dynamic half-back celebrated for his nimble footwork and precise passing, emerged as one of Derry City's early luminaries.
In a near-miss bid for glory in 1937–38, Doherty nearly steered the club to their maiden league title, only to succumb to Belfast Celtic in a hard-fought 1–3 defeat in a crucial title-deciding rematch.
[2] His talents drew the attention of Burnley, who made a substantial £1,000 offer in September 1937, narrowly avoided due to Derry's refusal.
Despite his departure, Doherty returned to Derry following World War II, ultimately clinching victory in the 1948–49 Irish Cup against Glentoran.
[4] Beyond his prowess on the field, Doherty briefly assumed managerial duties for the club from late 1959 to the culmination of the 1960–61 Irish League season.