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

Ideally, they'd want an contest for the urn in Australia where they still have a chance to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on their own soil.

The loyal traveling fans, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters traveling for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.

In addition, there are tour groups who will be vacationing overseas, as well as loved ones embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Disappointed Travelers

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are among those affected.

The group had their flights and tickets secured for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "well ahead of time", hoping to witness a long-awaited triumph.

Sadly, they've observed Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their house in the north of England.

"All my colleagues has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"Our expectation had been that we would have something to play for upon our arrival."

Diminishing Hope

There was plenty of positivity concerning a potential victory of breaking a 15-year drought for a triumph on Australian soil prior to the first ball.

But they are now staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 matches when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne this week.

The tourists - and their followers - will be keen to prevent a whitewash.

Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach the positive style of play in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for England fans.

But the Ryding siblings said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all comes down to fortitude. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, unrealistic play," stated Rory Ryding.

"In a five-day Test match, you should dig in. Wafting outside 'sixth stump' areas has never been in the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the batting lineup."

Looking Ahead

Asked whether he believed England will win a match in the current series, one fan responded: "It appears the Aussies are just too good at the moment."

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

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

"We will have a wonderful trip regardless," added another sibling. "We must adopt that mindset."

"Naturally, it's disappointing we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount by now."

"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year in Australia. Additionally, it's a new experience for us away from home during the festive period."

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

"Should the cricket disappoint, there's always golf to turn to," she added.