They posted a poor first half showing, having gone behind early on but recovered sufficiently to earn a share of the spoils.
Rovers failed to deal with an early free-kick that was sent to the back-post and Connor O'Riordan bundled in after slipshod defending from the visitors.
Shortly after Rovers were indebted to goalkeeper Ted Sharman-Lowe after a terrific stop to deny Kane Hemmings' close-range header.
The rest of the half saw Grant McCann's men toil to no avail and another couple of smart saves from Sharman-Lowe ensured it was only a 1-0 deficit at the interval.
The second half didn't see a vast improvement and McCann made four substitutions at once, just after the hour mark. And not long after they finally drew level. A Luke Molyneux corner was met by a booming header from Owen Bailey to restore parity.
Crewe had the better of the chances to pinch all the points before Rovers saw a penalty appeal involving sub Joe Sbarra waved away.
Here's how we rated the Rovers players:
13. Patrick Kelly 5
Dragged a shot wide of goal not long after coming on. Made some really intelligent runs to open space as Crewe jaded. Photo: Howard Roe/ahpix.com
14. Joe Sbarra 5
Some nippy touches including a quick counter that relieved pressure. Rovers were fuming they didn't get a penalty when it looked as though he was brought down at the death. Photo: Bruce Rollinson/AHPIX LTD
15. Billy Sharp 5
A few bits and bobs where he got involved near the Crewe box but nothing of substantial note. Photo: Bruce Rollinson/AHPIX LTD
16. Ethan Ennis 4
Struggled to make an impression in truth before seeing a wicked shot somehow deflected onto the woodwork. Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD