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Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an Three Lions follower ask for?

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.

This is not the case on this occasion, however, 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, the organized fan base, have a large group traveling for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.

There are also tour groups who will celebrate the holidays in Australia, as well as families and friends planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Ryding Siblings

The Ryding siblings are four such fans.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes secured for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "12 months ago", hoping to witness a historic English victory.

From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just under two weeks from their residence in the north of England.

"People in the office has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"We always thought that we would have something to play for still when we got there."

Lowered Expectations

Hope was abundant about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought for a triumph on Australian soil before it began.

But they are now facing the prospect of extending their winless run in the country to 19 games when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

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

Alex said the "entertainment" of head coach the positive style of play in the past couple of seasons had "brought fresh energy to" the longest format for England fans.

However, the group said they had minimal hopes for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"Commentators consistently references this, but it all is about fortitude. 'This style has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, unrealistic play," commented another sibling.

"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'wide of off stump has never featured in the textbooks, and that is mainly the fault the batting lineup."

Future Prospects

Prompted about he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, came the reply: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side right now."

"It will require more than one player that stands up for England and turns the game."

Regardless of the result, the siblings are still looking forward to the trip.

"We are going to have a great time nonetheless," said Katie. "We must adopt that attitude."

"Obviously it is unfortunate we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"We plan to savor celebrating the holidays out there. Additionally, it's a new experience for us away from home over Christmas."

A schoolteacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the long-haul travel as part of her Christmas holidays.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I've got golf to turn to," she finished.