The visitors looked to be there for the taking, having shipped seven goals without reply in successive defeats by Sheffield Wednesday and Middlesbrough.
But former Eagles striker Freedman, who was confirmed as George Burley's successor last week, was left frustrated as his side failed to take advantage and missed the chance to climb out of the npower Championship relegation zone.
Darren Ambrose came closest to finding the net for the hosts when he rattled the post early in the second half.
And City's Ivan Sproule was also denied by the woodwork at the other end late on.
Source: PA
Source: PA