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

Ideally, they'd want an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes after the first three Tests.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts 3-0 up for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.

The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters traveling for the concluding fixtures in Sydney and Melbourne.

In addition, there are organized trips who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as loved ones embarking on a special expedition.

The Ryding Siblings

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

The group had their travel arrangements and match passes booked for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "well ahead of time", anticipating a historic English victory.

Sadly, they've observed Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their family home in their hometown.

"All my colleagues has been giving me grief about it being over for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of securing a first win in 15 years for a series win in Australia ahead of the tour.

But they are now staring down the barrel of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.

The England team - and their followers - will be desperate to avoid a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent times had "brought fresh energy to" the longest format for English supporters.

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

"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'The aggressive approach has been become a phrase now that is just, like, impractical batting," commented another sibling.

"Over the course of five days, you should hunker down. Wafting outside 'wide of off stump has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is primarily due to the top order."

The Remaining Matches

When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side right now."

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

Even with the series lost, the siblings are still anticipating the trip.

"It will be a wonderful trip regardless," said Katie. "We must adopt that mindset."

"Obviously it is unfortunate we aren't fighting for more, but we have spent so much money by now."

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year in Australia. This will be a new experience for us abroad at this time of year."

An educator, Katie is determined to make the most of the long-haul travel as part of her Christmas holidays.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I've got golf to turn to," Katie concluded.