Derry's Kevin McGuckin holds off the challenge of David Moran

Derry had led 0-6 to 0-5 at half-time with All Star forward Paddy Bradley scoring four points from play.

But the Ulster side suffered a blow just before the break when they had Francis McEldowney senf-off after a melee in front of the derry goal.

Enda Muldoon, Liam Hinphey and Bradley got second-half points for Derry.

But Sheehan's late free secured victory for Kerry and handed overnight leaders Derry their first defeat of the campaign.

Derry's other points in the first half were scored by Frgal Doherty and James Conway.