Astonishingly, only two Middlesbrough players in the side that lost at Barnsley on December 28 were on show in this game.
Middlesbrough began in determined mood in a bid to avenge a 2-1 defeat and boost their hopes of a promotion play-off place.
Barnsley were forced on the defensive at the start and it was no surprise when Middlesbrough went ahead with a goal by New Zealand international Chris Killen after 24 minutes.
The 28-year-old striker, who hopes to play in the World Cup in the summer, scored from close range following a Gary O'Neil corner on the left.
O'Neil got his name on the scoresheet in the 35th minute when he was unmarked following a brilliant Barry Robson pass with only Luke Steele to beat.
Steele saved well from O'Neil and Jonathan Franks as half-time approached.
Middlesbrough fully deserved their lead and Barnsley manager Mark Robins must have been disappointed with the first-half performance of his team.
Robins, however, must have had strong words during the interval because Barnsley looked more positive and determined after the break.
The visitors pulled a goal back when Hugo Colace shot from outside the penalty area after 65 minutes.
Andy Gray had a chance to level the scores shorty after but he failed to make the most of his header.
Barnsley's Carl Dickinson was booked for a strong challenge from a decision that did not go down well with visiting fans.
From the free kick, O'Neil blasted a shot wide.
Strachan had a nightmare run after he took over from sacked Gareth Southgate in October. He must now hope his second home win will revive the fortunes of his team.
Barnsley had a great chance to snatch a point but substitute Jay Rodriguez headed wide.
Robins must have been heartened with the second-half performance of his team though no doubt he will demand a more committed 90-minute performance.