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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what more could an supporter of the English team ask for?

Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.

That will not be happening during this tour, after the hosts' dominant triumph in Adelaide left the home side leading three-nil for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.

The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, have a large group traveling for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.

There are also tour groups who will spend the Christmas period down under, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Disappointed Travelers

The Ryding siblings are four such fans.

The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "a full year in advance", anticipating a historic English victory.

Sadly, they've observed Australia dismantle the tourists in just 11 days from their house in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"Everyone at work has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"We always thought that we would have a meaningful contest by the time we arrived."

Lowered Expectations

There was plenty of positivity about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought for a victory down under prior to the first ball.

Yet now they are looking at the possibility of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in Melbourne this week.

The England team - and their followers - will be hoping to sidestep a whitewash.

One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent times had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for followers of the team.

Yet the fans said they had minimal hopes for the final two games - and all they are hoping for from the players is "some resilience".

"Every pundit points it out, but it all comes down to fortitude. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, unrealistic play," stated Rory Ryding.

"In a five-day Test match, you should dig in. Playing at deliveries 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the top order."

Looking Ahead

Asked whether he believed England will win a match in this contest, one fan responded: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior at the moment."

"It will require more than one player that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."

Regardless of the result, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"It will be a great time anyway," said Katie. "Our approach is that attitude."

"Naturally, it's unfortunate we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount already."

"We will make the most of celebrating the holidays overseas. This will be our first experience traveling over Christmas."

A schoolteacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.

"As a backup plan, I've got golf to fall back on," she finished.