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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what else would an Three Lions follower possibly want?

Ideally, they'd want an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to secure the famous trophy once the opening games are done.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table on this occasion, however, after the hosts' dominant triumph in Adelaide gave Australia with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on their own soil.

The loyal traveling fans, the organized fan base, have 3,000 fans making the journey for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.

Furthermore, other travel parties who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as families and friends embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Fans with Booked Tickets

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are four such fans.

The four siblings had their flights and tickets arranged for the fourth and fifth Tests "well ahead of time", hoping to witness a rare England series success.

Instead, they have watched Australia dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their family home in their hometown.

"People in the office has been giving me grief that the series is done for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

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

Lowered Expectations

Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of securing a first win in 15 years for a victory down under prior to the first ball.

But they are now staring down the barrel 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.

Ben Stokes' side - and their followers - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent times had "brought fresh energy to" Test cricket for followers of the team.

However, the group said they had minimal hopes for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"Every pundit alludes to it, but it all comes down to psychological strength. 'Bazball' has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, unrealistic play," stated Rory Ryding.

"In a five-day Test match, you should hunker down. Playing at deliveries 'wide of off stump has not been part of the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the batting lineup."

The Remaining Matches

Prompted about he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior currently."

"Necessarily, there must be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."

Despite the scoreline, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"We will have a fantastic experience anyway," added another sibling. "We have to go with that mindset."

"Of course, it's disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have spent so much money as it is."

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year in Australia. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time away from home at this time of year."

A schoolteacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the long-haul travel as part of her seasonal break.

"If all else fails, I've got golf to rely on," she added.