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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what more could an Three Lions follower desire?

Well, perhaps an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes once the opening games are done.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing 82-run win in Adelaide left the home side 3-0 up for the fourth consecutive series on their own soil.

The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, have 3,000 fans traveling for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.

Furthermore, other travel parties who will spend the Christmas period down under, as well as relatives and companions heading for a special expedition.

The Disappointed Travelers

The Ryding siblings are among those affected.

The four siblings had their itineraries and entry credentials arranged for the fourth and fifth Tests "a full year in advance", anticipating a rare England series success.

Instead, they have watched Australia outplay the visitors in just under two weeks from their house in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"Everyone at work has been giving me grief that the series is done for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"Our expectation had been that we would have a meaningful contest by the time we arrived."

Diminishing Hope

Optimism was high about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought for a series win in Australia ahead of the tour.

However, the situation is now looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne this week.

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

One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in the past couple of seasons had "brought fresh energy to" the five-day game for English supporters.

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

"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all comes down to fortitude. 'The aggressive approach has been become a phrase now that is just, like, unrealistic play," commented another sibling.

"Over the course of five days, you should dig in. Playing at deliveries 'sixth stump' areas has never been in the fundamentals, and that is mainly the fault the batting lineup."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, came the reply: "The evidence suggests the hosts are a stronger side currently."

"It will require several individuals that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

Regardless of the result, the fans are excited about the trip.

"It will be a fantastic experience anyway," commented Katie Ryding. "We have to go with that outlook."

"Of course, it's a let-down we don't have more to play for, but we have spent so much money as it is."

"We plan to savor spending the festive season overseas. It is also a new experience for us away from home over Christmas."

An educator, Katie is intent on maximizing the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her seasonal break.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to turn to," Katie concluded.