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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what more could an supporter of the English team ask for?

Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to secure the famous trophy once the opening games are done.

This is not the case on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing triumph in Adelaide gave Australia with a 3-0 lead for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.

The Barmy Army, England's supporters' group, have a large group traveling for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.

Furthermore, other travel parties who will spend the Christmas period overseas, as well as relatives and companions heading for a dream holiday.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are among those affected.

The four siblings had their itineraries and entry credentials booked for the fourth and fifth Tests "well ahead of time", dreaming of a rare England series success.

Instead, they have watched Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their house in the north of England.

"All my colleagues has been giving me grief about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"The hope was that we would have the series on the line still when we got there."

Fading Positivity

Optimism was high about England's chances of ending their 15-year wait for a series win in Australia before it began.

However, the situation is now facing the prospect of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.

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

It was mentioned that the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "renewed interest in" the longest format for English supporters.

However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are requesting from the players is "a bit of fight".

"All analysts points it out, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, impractical batting," added Rory.

"In a five-day Test match, you should hunker down. Chasing balls 'outside the line has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is largely because of the batting lineup."

Future Prospects

Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior right now."

"There is going to have to be more than one player that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

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

"It will be a wonderful trip nonetheless," commented Katie Ryding. "We must adopt that outlook."

"Obviously it is unfortunate we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount by now."

"We plan to savor celebrating the holidays in Australia. This will be a new experience for us abroad during the festive period."

A schoolteacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her time off.

"As a backup plan, I can play golf to fall back on," she added.