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The home side's attacking frailties were exposed and punished by a ruthless Australian side as the tourists swept to a surprisingly comfortable victory in the opening Test of the Ashes.

The England coach's side had spoken effusively about their motivation going into the opening series for over two decades, and they were definitely full of endeavour at the famous stadium. Yet, in the key instances, it was the world champions who displayed more calmness in front of a record attendance for an Ashes Test in the UK of more than 60,000.

Brilliant Performance from Reece Walsh

Guided by an exceptional showing in attack and defence from Brisbane Broncos’ Walsh, Australia were deserving and convincing winners in the opening Test of the three-match series, meaning the hosts must triumph at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium next Saturday to sustain their aspirations of a first Ashes win since 1970.

England will have to be significantly improved with the possession if they are to achieve that. On several instances in the opening period, the home team found themselves in advantageous situations but they were unable to cross for any points. That was in no small part thanks to Reece Walsh, who executed two wonderful interceptions.

Key Moments of the Game

The initial occurred as Farnworth seemed destined to put Young in for what would have been the opening try, then Walsh stopped Mikey Lewis as half-time approached. By then, the Kangaroos had taken the lead as Walsh himself completed a excellent play.

Nathan Cleary converted before adding a two-pointer on the brink of the interval to establish a eight-point lead. It was a significant moment, as was the try for Angus Crichton soon after the resumption which made it 14-0 in favor of the Kangaroos. The hosts now had to score three times and that seemed to stifle their momentum.

If there were any doubt about the winners, they were firmly put to bed with 15 minutes to go. Munster's half-break was supported by Crichton, who broke through Welsby for the Kangaroos' third score.

That made it 20-0 and there was further humiliation in the closing stages as Walsh finished another breathtaking move, taking advantage of a weary and visibly shot England defensive line for his second.

Match Result and Outlook

By then, home fans had begun to leave early and many missed Daryl Clark’s consolation, which at least prevented England being held to nil. Nonetheless, there are plenty of questions for Wane to address going into what is now a do-or-die match next Saturday.

• Home Side: Full team lineup.
• Substitutes: Bench players.
• Tries: Daryl Clark.
• Goal: Mikey Lewis.

• Visitors: Walsh; Nawaqanitawase, Staggs, Shibasaki, Addo-Carr; Munster, Cleary; Carrigan, Grant, Fa’asuamaleaui, Crichton, Young, Yeo.
• Bench: Reserves.
• Tries: Walsh 2, Crichton 2.
• Kicks: Nathan Cleary (five).