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Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what else would an England cricket fan ask for?

Ideally, they'd want an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to secure the famous trophy after the first three Tests.

This is not the case on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia 3-0 up for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.

The loyal traveling fans, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans flying out for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.

In addition, there are tour groups who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as families and friends embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Ryding Siblings

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

The group had their travel arrangements and match passes booked for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.

From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just a short period from their family home in Penwortham, Lancashire.

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

"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line by the time we arrived."

Fading Positivity

Hope was abundant regarding the team's prospects of securing a first win in 15 years for a victory down under before it began.

However, the situation is now staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.

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

Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "brought fresh energy to" the longest format for England fans.

Yet the fans said they had realistic outlooks for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"Commentators consistently references this, but it all is about fortitude. 'The aggressive approach has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, unrealistic play," added Rory.

"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Wafting outside 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the top order."

Looking Ahead

When questioned if he believed England will win a match in this Ashes series, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the Aussies are just too good currently."

"Necessarily, there must be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and produces a match-winning display."

Despite the scoreline, the group remains looking forward to the trip.

"We will have a fantastic experience regardless," said Katie. "Our approach is that attitude."

"Obviously it is a let-down we don't have more to play for, but we have made a substantial financial commitment as it is."

"We'll enjoy having Christmas and New Year out there. This will be our first experience abroad during the festive period."

A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her Christmas holidays.

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