Wigan Athletic are leading Barnsley 1-0 at half time thanks to a goal from Ben Watson.
The Latics had made a promising start on their return to the Championship and nearly took the lead in the 13th minute.
Jean Beausejour's low cross found Shaun Maloney at the back post and his close-range effort was kept out by goalkeeper Luke Steele.
In the 37th minute Wigan took the lead when midfielder Watson fired in a low strike from long range.
James McCarthy could have doubled Wigan's advantage at the end of the half after being played in behind the Barnsley defence, but his effort was kept out by Steele.
