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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what else would an supporter of the English team desire?

Realistically, they'd hope for an contest for the urn in Australia where they still have a chance to secure the famous trophy after the first three Tests.

That will not be happening during this tour, after a comprehensive triumph in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on their own soil.

England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have a large group making the journey for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.

Furthermore, other organized trips who will spend the Christmas period down under, as well as loved ones planning a dream holiday.

Fans with Booked Tickets

The Ryding siblings are a prime example.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets booked for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "a full year in advance", hoping to witness a historic English victory.

From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just 11 days from their house in the north of England.

"People in the office has been making comments about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

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

Diminishing Hope

Optimism was high about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a victory down under prior to the first ball.

But they are now looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The tourists - and their followers - will be hoping to sidestep a clean sweep.

It was mentioned that the "excitement and fun" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for England fans.

Yet the fans said they had low expectations for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a bit of fight".

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

"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Wafting outside 'outside the line has never featured in the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the batting lineup."

The Remaining Matches

When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the hosts are a stronger side right now."

"Necessarily, there must be more than one player that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

Despite the scoreline, the fans are anticipating the trip.

"We will have a wonderful trip regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "We must adopt that mindset."

"Naturally, it's disappointing we aren't fighting for more, but we have spent so much money as it is."

"We plan to savor celebrating the holidays out there. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time away from home at this time of year."

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

"Should the cricket disappoint, there's always golf to rely on," she finished.