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Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an supporter of the English team desire?

Ideally, they'd want an contest for the urn in Australia where they still have a chance to win back the Ashes after the first three Tests.

This is not the case this time, though, after Australia's crushing triumph in Adelaide put the hosts leading three-nil for the fourth consecutive series on Australian grounds.

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

Furthermore, other tour groups who will celebrate the holidays in Australia, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a dream holiday.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are among those affected.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes booked for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.

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

"People in the office has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

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

Fading Positivity

Hope was abundant regarding the team's prospects of breaking a 15-year drought for a series win in Australia prior to the first ball.

But they are now facing the prospect of prolonging a streak without victory 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 fans - will be desperate to avoid a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

It was mentioned that the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "renewed interest in" the longest format for followers of the team.

But the Ryding siblings said they had low expectations for the final two games - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"All analysts alludes to it, but it all is about mental resilience. 'Bazball' has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'wide of off stump has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."

Future Prospects

Prompted about he believed England will win a match in this Ashes series, Sam said: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side currently."

"There is going to have to be more than one player that stands up for England and produces a match-winning display."

Despite the scoreline, the siblings are still excited about the trip.

"It will be a great time anyway," added another sibling. "We have to go with that attitude."

"Of course, it's unfortunate we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"We will make the most of celebrating the holidays overseas. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time traveling over Christmas."

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

"As a backup plan, there's always golf to turn to," she finished.