A regular and consistent performer in the club’s early seasons in the Football League, Bristol-born Alf Matthews played for Exeter City between 1922 and 1926. He joined the club from Bristol City and later played for Plymouth Argyle for seven seasons.

Starting his career with local Bristol side Parson Street Old Boys, Alf was signed by Bristol City in 1921 but only made one league appearance. 

Signed by Exeter City in May 1922, Alf made his debut in a 3-0 defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion in September 1922 and was thereafter an ever-present for the remainder of the season. Missing the first couple of games of the next season, Alf ultimately made 29 league appearances (5 goals) in 1923/24 followed by appearing in all 42 fixtures in 1924/25 when he again scored on five occasions.

Remaining with City for a fourth season - 28 league appearances scoring twice - Alf switched to Plymouth Argyle in 1926 where he stayed for seven seasons as he scored 30 goals from 142 league starts. Awarded a benefit game against Exeter City, Alf left for Doncaster Rovers in 1933/34 where he made eight appearances before finishing his professional career with Crystal Palace. 

Alf then returned to Plymouth where he lived and worked for the remainder of his life ahead of his death in 1985.