'People keep ribbing me' regarding the series being over prior to my arrival.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an England cricket fan possibly want?
Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to reclaim the urn after the first three Tests.
That will not be happening this time, though, after a comprehensive 82-run win in Adelaide gave Australia with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on home turf.
The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have a large group flying out for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.
Furthermore, other tour groups who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as loved ones heading for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Fans with Booked Tickets
A group of four supporters are a prime example.
Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes arranged for the fourth and fifth Tests "well ahead of time", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.
From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their residence in Penwortham, Lancashire.
"All my colleagues 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 something to play for upon our arrival."
Lowered Expectations
There was plenty of positivity regarding the team's prospects of securing a first win in 15 years for a victory down under before it began.
Yet now they are staring down the barrel of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the next match starts in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.
The England team - and their supporters - will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep.
One sibling noted the "entertainment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "brought fresh energy to" the five-day game for England fans.
Yet the fans said they had minimal hopes for the remaining matches - and all they are requesting from the players is "some resilience".
"Every pundit points it out, but it all is about psychological strength. 'Bazball' has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.
"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has never been in the fundamentals, and that is mainly the fault the frontline batsmen."
The Remaining Matches
When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "The evidence suggests the Aussies are just too good currently."
"It will require multiple performers that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."
Despite the scoreline, the fans are anticipating the trip.
"It will be a fantastic experience anyway," added another sibling. "We must adopt that attitude."
"Obviously it is a let-down we aren't fighting for more, but we have made a substantial financial commitment by now."
"We will make the most of spending the festive season out there. Additionally, it's our first experience abroad at this time of year."
A teacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the long-haul travel as part of her time off.
"If all else fails, I can play golf to turn to," she finished.
