Barnsley 0 Brighton & Hove Albion 2
A double from Sam Baldock sent the Seagulls two points clear of Newcastle at the top of the Championship.
Anthony Knockaert made both Albion goals as Baldock grabbed his ninth and tenth of the season.
Jamie Murphy also had a good chance but nodded a free header wide.
Dale Stephens gave another strong performance in the midfield.
Albion now have a pivotal double header against Reading next Saturday (25 February) then Newcastle on Tuesday 28 February both at the Amex.
The Seagulls are seven points clear of third place Huddersfield who now have a game in hand and play at home to Reading on Tuesday (21 February). Newcastle host Aston Villa the day before.
