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

Realistically, they'd hope for an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes once the opening games are done.

That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing triumph in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on their own soil.

England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters traveling for the last two matches 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 embarking on a dream holiday.

Fans with Booked Tickets

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

The group had their itineraries and entry credentials arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a rare England series success.

From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their house in their hometown.

"All my colleagues has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

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

Fading Positivity

Optimism was high about England's chances of ending their 15-year wait for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.

But they are now facing the prospect of extending their winless run in the country to 19 games when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

Ben Stokes' side - and their supporters - will be keen to prevent a whitewash.

Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "reinvigorated" Test cricket for followers of the team.

However, the group said they had minimal hopes for the remaining matches - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all comes down to fortitude. 'The aggressive approach has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.

"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has never been in the textbooks, and that is largely because of the batting lineup."

Looking Ahead

Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in this contest, one fan responded: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."

"There is going to have to be several individuals that stands up for England and produces a match-winning display."

Despite the scoreline, the siblings are still looking forward to the trip.

"We will have a wonderful trip regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "Our approach is that attitude."

"Of course, it's unfortunate we aren't fighting for more, but we have made a substantial financial commitment as it is."

"We'll enjoy spending the festive season in Australia. Additionally, it's a new experience for us abroad during the festive period."

An educator, Katie is intent on maximizing the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her seasonal break.

"As a backup plan, I can play golf to fall back on," Katie concluded.