It was a contest that had a dearth of goalscoring chances in the first half, with the well-oiled visitors stringing together some nice exchanges. Billy Sharp bundled the ball into the net from a few yards out just before half-time, after Jordan Gibson's free-kick had been tipped onto the crossbar by goalkeeper Filip Marschall. But the offside flag was quickly raised to stub out home celebrations.
Crewe then broke the deadlock on 56 minutes when Max Conway slalomed through the defence before slotting home.
After a change of shape and personnel Rovers finally found the breakthrough on 73 minutes. Sub Joe Sbarra started the move as he swept it out to Luke Molyneux. He then darted down the left and picked out another sub Kyle Hurst who took a touch, composed himself and fired home.
Despite Grant McCann's men having the better chances to pinch the points, it ended honours even.
Here's how we rated the Rovers players:
9. Jordan Gibson 7
Turned on the style with tricks and flicks. Had the beating of his marker a few times and whipped in some nice crosses. Free-kick in first half tipped it onto the crossbar before subsequent goal from Sharp was chalked off for offside. Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD
10. Luke Molyneux 7
Slow first half but roared into life once the change of formation was applied. Another assist for his collection, teeing up Hurst. Made most key passes of any Rovers player. Photo: Andrew Roe/AHPIX LTD
11. Billy Sharp 5
Starved of service in the first half, feeding off scraps. Did tap in rebound from Gibson's free-kick but offside flag quickly ruled it out. Missed a sitter near the end. Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD
12. Joe Ironside 6
Chucked on alongside Sharp and made a menace of himself as he hassled and harried Crewe's backline. Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD