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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what else would an England cricket fan possibly want?

Ideally, they'd want an contest for the urn in Australia where they still have a chance to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.

That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after a comprehensive triumph in Adelaide gave Australia leading three-nil for the fourth successive Ashes series on Australian grounds.

The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have 3,000 fans making the journey for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.

In addition, there are organized trips who will be vacationing down under, as well as families and friends embarking on a special expedition.

The Ryding Siblings

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

The group had their itineraries and entry credentials secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "12 months ago", anticipating a rare England series success.

From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just a short period from their house in the north of England.

"All my colleagues has been teasing me about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"Our expectation had been that we would have something to play for still when we got there."

Lowered Expectations

Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of ending their 15-year wait for a victory down under prior to the first ball.

However, the situation is now staring down the barrel of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 games when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The tourists - and their supporters - will be keen to prevent a whitewash.

Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for English supporters.

However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are requesting from the players is "a bit of fight".

"Commentators consistently references this, but it all hinges on fortitude. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, unrealistic play," added Rory.

"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is primarily due to the frontline batsmen."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, came the reply: "It looks like the Aussies are just too good currently."

"Necessarily, there must be several individuals that delivers for the team and produces a match-winning display."

Regardless of the result, the fans are excited about the trip.

"We will have a wonderful trip nonetheless," commented Katie Ryding. "We must adopt that mindset."

"Of course, it's a let-down we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount by now."

"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year out there. Additionally, it's a new experience for us traveling during the festive period."

An educator, Katie is focused on enjoying the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her seasonal break.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I've got golf to fall back on," she finished.