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Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an Three Lions follower desire?

Ideally, they'd want an contest for the urn in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy following the initial matches.

This is not the case on this occasion, however, after a comprehensive 82-run win in Adelaide gave Australia with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on Australian grounds.

The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, have 3,000 fans making the journey for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.

Furthermore, other organized trips who will spend the Christmas period down under, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a dream holiday.

Fans with Booked Tickets

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are a prime example.

The group had their itineraries and entry credentials arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "a full year in advance", dreaming of a rare England series success.

Sadly, they've observed Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their house in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"People in the office has been making comments that the series is done for the last two weeks," said Sam.

"We always thought that we would have the series on the line still when we got there."

Diminishing Hope

There was plenty of positivity concerning a potential victory of securing a first win in 15 years for a series win in Australia before it began.

But they are now facing the prospect of extending their winless run in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the Boxing Day Test begins in the MCG on Christmas Day.

The England team - and their supporters - will be desperate to avoid a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" Test cricket for England fans.

However, the group said they had low expectations for the remaining matches - and all they are requesting from the players is "some resilience".

"Every pundit points it out, but it all hinges on fortitude. 'Bazball' has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.

"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'outside the line has never been in the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the frontline batsmen."

Looking Ahead

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."

"There is going to have to be more than one player that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."

Even with the series lost, the siblings are still anticipating the trip.

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

"Of course, it's disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"We'll enjoy spending the festive season in Australia. This will be mine and Rory's first time away from home during the festive period."

An educator, Katie is determined to make the most of the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her time off.

"As a backup plan, there's always golf to turn to," she added.