The Reds conceded the only goal of the game after just four minutes - Boro's Jason Kennedy connected with an Anthony Peacock pass to shoot home.
The Tykes best efforts came from striker Tom Baker but he generally had to make do with long range shots against a well-organised Boro' side.
Barnsley lined up as follows: Shackleton, Harban, Williams, Tonge, Laight, Oldham, Greaves, Wroe, White, Baker, Sheard. Subs: Padgett, Flinders, Cyrus, Joynes, Seed.