I should have known better. Before the game had reached the final 15 mins Barnsley had rattled in three goals without reply and the journey North had been fruitless.
Jamall Campbell-Ryce levelled for Barnsley before half time.
It got worse in the second half when Lee Hills scored an own goal and the victory was wrapped up by Michael Mifsud on 73 mins.
Palace are 10 points off the play off places with 8 games to go. This Saturday Reading are the visitors to Selhurst Park.