Fulham have a poor record against Barnsley in recent years, and with John Collins missing his first league game of the season the omens were not good for Sunday's clash at Craven Cottage.
Any worries however were quickly dispelled, as Louis Saha gave the Whites a 6th minute lead following a delightful free kick from the emerging Fabrice Fernandes.
From that moment on Barnsley's inexperienced defence began to crumble.
The Hayles - Saha partnership is becoming deadly, and it was no surprise when the 2 combined after 31 mins to double Fulham's lead.
Route one football this time as Saha flicked on Taylor's goalkick to free Hayles. Barry's initial shot was blocked but the rebound fell kindly for Saha who slotted home from 12 yards.
In between the goals the first poor referreing decison of the game denied Barnsley a goal as a Mike Sheron effort was chalked off for a dubious offside decision.
Fulham made sure of all 3 points before half time, as Miller in the Barnsley goal brought down Goldbaek in the box to end another free flowing Fulham move.
Saha confidently completed his hat trick from the spot.
The second half produced more of the same, as Dave Bassetts men threw in the towel.
Fabrice Fernandes almost added to his wonder strike in the Worthington Cup with a rasping left footed effort which shook the frame of the goal. However it was the hard working Barry Hayles who notched number 4, Saha this time the provider
More refeering mayhem followed as Mitch Ward received his 2nd yellow card for a late challenge on Fernandes but was allowed to stay on the pitch for an extra 3 minutes before ref Andy Hall twigged.
With Lewis, Boa Morte and Hayward all introduced Fulham briefly lost their rhythm and a defensive mix up allowed Matty Appleby to score a neat consolation goal for the Tykes.
Miller made good saves from Lewis and Saha to deny Fulham further joy, but in injury time Boa Morte latched on to a defensive error to complete the rout from an acute angle.
The one disappointment of a glorious Fulham display was another paltry attendance, just 10,643, the lowest of the season, turned up to watch the Whites once again turn on the style. Mr Al Fayed must be wondering what else he can do to boost attendances.
Source www.the-referees-a.com