Ollie Watkins, a doubt for the game, shot Steven Gerrard’s team ahead on the 69th minute after out jumping Marc Guehi in the box.
The goal woke a Palace side that had looked docile and not interested, there were snapshots from Zaha and Mateta testing Emiliano Martínez in post for Villa immediately after the goal.
Both Clyne and Zaha continue to pile pressure on Martinez but it was substitute Jeffrey Schlupp who would get the equaliser with less than 10 minutes to end the game.
The draw would frustrate manager Patrick Vieira who impressed on his players to make a claim for a top half finish in the Premier League.
They are currently 11th on the league table, a point ahead of 12th placed Aston Villa but crucially still three points behind 10th placed Brighton who navigated a 1-1 draw with Leeds.
Wilfried Zaha will also be frustrated as Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was on a personal mission to ensure he was not on the score-sheet.
The Ivorian has told LondonWorld.com that he would like to finish the season on 15 goals but firing blank at Villa Park means he will have to now score against Everton in midweek or Manchester United on the final day.
So in a game that will be generally viewed as a point gained rather than two dropped, here is how we rated everyone.
1. Jack Butland
Good the call ahead of Vicente and will be disappointed not to have a kept a clean sheet-6
2. Marc Guehi
Recovered to take his spot at the heart of defence. Great and aerially commanding even if he he would be gutted not to have kept a clean sheet. Will be delighted with his assist though-6.5
3. Tyrick Mitchell
Was back to the starting 11 and kept his defensive shape tight. Has had a really great season-6.5
4. Kouyate
Returned to the starting line and never stopped running. Quite a weapon to have in a team-7