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

Realistically, they'd hope for an contest for the urn in Australia where they still have a chance to win back the Ashes once the opening games are done.

That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after a comprehensive triumph in Adelaide put the hosts 3-0 up for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.

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

In addition, there are organized trips who will celebrate the holidays in Australia, as well as relatives and companions planning a dream holiday.

The Ryding Siblings

A group of four supporters are four such fans.

The four siblings had their flights and tickets booked for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "well ahead of time", anticipating a rare England series success.

From afar, they've seen Australia outplay the visitors in just under two weeks from their house in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"Everyone at work has been giving me grief about it being over for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"Our expectation had been that we would have a meaningful contest still when we got there."

Diminishing Hope

Optimism was high regarding the team's prospects of ending their 15-year wait for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.

However, the situation is now staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 matches when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne this week.

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

One sibling noted the "excitement and fun" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent times had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for followers of the team.

But the Ryding siblings said they had minimal hopes for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"All analysts points it out, but it all hinges on mental resilience. 'The aggressive approach has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, unrealistic play," stated Rory Ryding.

"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'outside the line has not been part of the textbooks, and that is largely because of the frontline batsmen."

The Remaining Matches

When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, came the reply: "It looks like the Australians are superior currently."

"There is going to have to be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."

Even with the series lost, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"We will have a fantastic experience regardless," said Katie. "We have to go with that attitude."

"Obviously it is a let-down we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year overseas. This will be mine and Rory's first time away from home over Christmas."

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

"Should the cricket disappoint, I've got golf to rely on," she added.