The Eagles would now need to win all their remaining seven games to have any reasonable chance of joining the end-of-season party - but most of those matches are against opposition already firmly established in the top half of the division.
However, Palace boss Peter Taylor believes this tough run-in will work in his side's favour.
Games at home to Sheffield Wednesday, Preston, Wolves and Derby - coupled with tough trips to Stoke, Barnsley and Colchester - make the chances of a clean sweep look somewhat remote.
But Taylor is not prepared to give up hope just yet.
"I think our run-in is better for us, honestly I really do," he insisted.
"Teams have got to come to here and when we play away from home they are all going to be going for points, Barnsley as well.
"I prefer an open game because it helps our chances."
Speaking to News Shopper, he added: "We could have been playing teams who are happy with a point, play a little defensive whereas even Barnsley will be looking for three points when they play us because of how tight it is down there.
"So I think it will make better matches so I am delighted Preston, Derby and Wolves have got to come to us and try and win the game, I think that is better for us."