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Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an supporter of the English team possibly want?

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

This is not the case on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia leading three-nil for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.

The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have a large group making the journey for the last two matches in the SCG and MCG.

There are also tour groups who will celebrate the holidays overseas, as well as loved ones heading for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Ryding Siblings

The Ryding siblings are four such fans.

The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes booked for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "12 months ago", anticipating a long-awaited triumph.

Instead, they have watched Australia outplay the visitors in just a short period from their house in their hometown.

"People in the office has been making comments regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line still when we got there."

Diminishing Hope

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 prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.

Ben Stokes' side - and their followers - will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep.

One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent times had "renewed interest in" Test cricket for followers of the team.

Yet the fans said they had minimal hopes for the final two games - and all they are hoping for from the players is "some resilience".

"Every pundit references this, but it all comes down to psychological strength. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, unrealistic play," stated Rory Ryding.

"In a five-day Test match, you should dig in. Chasing balls 'outside the line has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is mainly the fault the frontline batsmen."

Looking Ahead

Prompted about he believed England will secure a victory in the current series, came the reply: "It appears the Aussies are just too good currently."

"It will require multiple performers that delivers for the team and produces a match-winning display."

Even with the series lost, the fans are anticipating the trip.

"We will have a great time regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "We must adopt that mindset."

"Obviously it is a let-down we can't contest the series, but we have made a substantial financial commitment as it is."

"We'll enjoy celebrating the holidays out there. Additionally, it's our first experience away from home over Christmas."

A teacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the lengthy journey as part of her Christmas holidays.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to fall back on," she added.