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

Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes after the first three Tests.

This is not the case during this tour, after Australia's crushing 82-run win in Adelaide gave Australia with a 3-0 lead for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.

The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have a large group flying out for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.

There are also organized trips who will celebrate the holidays overseas, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a special expedition.

Fans with Booked Tickets

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

The group had their travel arrangements and match passes arranged for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "a full year in advance", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.

Instead, they have watched Australia dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their house in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"Everyone at work has been making comments about it being over for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"Our expectation had been that we would have a meaningful contest upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

Hope was abundant concerning a potential victory of securing a first win in 15 years for a victory down under before it began.

However, the situation is now facing the prospect of extending their winless run in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne this week.

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

One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" Test cricket for England fans.

However, the group said they had realistic outlooks 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 hinges on fortitude. 'The aggressive approach has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"Over the course of five days, you should dig in. Chasing balls 'wide of off stump has never been in the textbooks, and that is primarily due to the top order."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, came the reply: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side currently."

"It will require more than one player that stands up for England and produces a match-winning display."

Even with the series lost, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"It will be a great time regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "We have to go with that outlook."

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

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year overseas. It is also mine and Rory's first time away from home during the festive period."

A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the lengthy journey as part of her Christmas holidays.

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