Maceo Rigters joined on loan from Blackburn the day before the first game of the season.
Saturday 9th August 2008
Match One: QPR 2-1 Barnsley
The first game was away at newly invested in Queens Park Rangers, a game in which the Reds took the lead through new signing Iain Hume after just five minutes, but two goals in two minutes from defender Fitz Hall put paid to the good start. Luke Steele saved a later penalty from Hall before Marciano van Homoet was sent off for a crude challenge on Real Madrid loanee Daniel Parejo.
Tuesday 12th August 2008
Carling Cup Round One: Crewe 2-0 Barnsley
The Reds went out of the League Cup with an appalling performance at Crewe. The home side took the lead when Darren Moore gave away a penalty which Michael O'Connor dispatched. Later on in the first half, Rob Kozluk fouled for a second penalty, which this time Anthony Elding smashed home.
Saturday 16th August 2008
Match Two: Barnsley 1-2 Coventry City
The Reds poor start continued with a defeat at home to bogey side Coventry. Freddie Eastwood gave the Sky Blues the lead before Reds skipper Brian Howard fired home a beauty just before half time. Julian Gray restored Coventry's lead before Hume was sent off for two bookings.
Saturday 23rd August 2008
Match Three: Birmingham City 2-0 Barnsley
It was played three lost three after the trip to St Andrews. The Reds played well but were undone in the first 45 minutes with goals from summer target Kevin Phillips and Scottish striker Garry O'Connor. Diego Leon hit the bar for the Reds.
Saturday 30th August 2008
Match Four: Barnsley 2-0 Derby County
Barnsley finally got their first win and points on the board with a good win over relegated Derby. A stunning strike from Iain Hume on 73 minutes and a header from Stephen Foster sealed the points for the Reds.
August record: P4 W1 D0 L3 F3 A6 GD-3 Pts3
Top scorer: Iain Hume (2)