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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what more could an Three Lions follower possibly want?

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.

That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after the hosts' dominant 82-run win in Adelaide put the hosts 3-0 up for the fourth successive Ashes series on Australian grounds.

England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters traveling for the concluding fixtures in New South Wales and Victoria.

There are also tour groups who will spend the Christmas period down under, as well as families and friends planning a special expedition.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes secured for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "12 months ago", anticipating a long-awaited triumph.

From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their family home in the north of England.

"All my colleagues has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"We always thought that we would have something to play for upon our arrival."

Fading Positivity

Hope was abundant concerning a potential victory of ending their 15-year wait for a series win in Australia prior to the first ball.

But they are now facing the prospect of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the next match starts in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The England team - and their fans - will be desperate to avoid a whitewash.

One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in the past couple of seasons had "reinvigorated" Test cricket for followers of the team.

Yet the fans said they had low expectations for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are hoping for from the players is "some resilience".

"All analysts points it out, but it all hinges on mental resilience. 'Bazball' has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, unrealistic play," commented another sibling.

"During a long match, you should hunker down. Wafting outside 'wide of off stump has not been part of the fundamentals, and that is mainly the fault the batting lineup."

Looking Ahead

When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in the current series, came the reply: "It appears the Australians are superior currently."

"It will require multiple performers that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."

Despite the scoreline, the group remains anticipating the trip.

"We are going to have a wonderful trip regardless," added another sibling. "Our approach is that mindset."

"Naturally, it's unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount already."

"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year overseas. It is also our first experience traveling at this time of year."

A teacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the long-haul travel as part of her seasonal break.

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