Rovers started brightly but were increasingly second best as their hosts grew into the game before taking a first-half lead through Ben Whitfield.
Tyrell Warren doubled Barrow's lead after the break with Pete Wild's side unlucky not to win by a bigger scoreline as more chances came and went.
Brace yourself for our player ratings after a bad night at the office for Gary McSheffrey's men.
1. Match action from Doncaster Rovers' defeat at Barrow
Kyle Hurst takes on his man. Picture: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD
2. Jonathan Mitchell - 6
A few shaky moments early on but settled as the first half wore on. Made two good saves to deny Ben Whitfield but then appeared to let one slip through his hands for the first goal. Denied Robbie Grotts and Billy Waters with good saves in the second half and did well to keep the score at 2-0. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
3. Kyle Knoyle - 5
Started well but his influence waned as the team's fortunes went increasingly downhill. Photo: HOWARD ROE, Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD
4. Tommy Rowe - 5
A rare off night and spawned a great chance to equalise just before half time. Needs to be utilised further forward, surely. Photo: Andrew Roe/AHPIX LTD