'People keep ribbing me' over the series concluding before I get there.

Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an supporter of the English team ask for?

Ideally, they'd want an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to reclaim the urn following the initial matches.

This is not the case on this occasion, however, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia leading three-nil for the fourth consecutive series on their own soil.

The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, have a large group traveling for the last two matches in New South Wales and Victoria.

In addition, there are organized trips who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as loved ones embarking on a special expedition.

The Ryding Siblings

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are four such fans.

The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes arranged for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "well ahead of time", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.

Instead, they have watched Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their house in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"Everyone at work has been making comments about it being over for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"The hope was that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

Optimism was high about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a series win in Australia before it began.

However, the situation is now facing the prospect of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the fourth Test gets under way in the MCG on Christmas Day.

The England team - and their supporters - will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep.

Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "brought fresh energy to" the five-day game for followers of the team.

Yet the fans said they had realistic outlooks for the final two games - and all they are requesting from the players is "a show of spirit".

"All analysts alludes to it, but it all is about mental resilience. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, impractical batting," added Rory.

"During a long match, you should hunker down. Chasing balls 'outside the line has not been part of the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the batting lineup."

Future Prospects

Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in the current series, one fan responded: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side right now."

"There is going to have to be several individuals that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

Despite the scoreline, the group remains anticipating the trip.

"We will have a wonderful trip anyway," added another sibling. "We have to go with that mindset."

"Of course, it's disappointing we don't have more to play for, but we have spent so much money as it is."

"We'll enjoy celebrating the holidays overseas. Additionally, it's our first experience abroad over Christmas."

A schoolteacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the long-haul travel as part of her seasonal break.

"Should the cricket disappoint, there's always golf to fall back on," she finished.