🔗 Share this article 'People keep ribbing me' about the Ashes concluding ahead of my trip. Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an supporter of the English team desire? Ideally, they'd want an contest for the urn in Australia where they still have a chance to win back the Ashes once the opening games are done. Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table this time, though, after the hosts' dominant 82-run win in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on home turf. England's famous supporters' group, the organized fan base, have a large group traveling for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne. In addition, there are tour groups who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as families and friends planning a dream holiday. The Ryding Siblings A group of four supporters are four such fans. The group had their itineraries and entry credentials arranged for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "12 months ago", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph. From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their house in Penwortham, Lancashire. "All my colleagues has been giving me grief about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding. "The hope was that we would have something to play for upon our arrival." Fading Positivity Optimism was high about England's chances of ending their 15-year wait for a victory down under ahead of the tour. But they are now staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the Boxing Day Test begins in the MCG on Christmas Day. Ben Stokes' side - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline. It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for England fans. But the Ryding siblings said they had minimal hopes for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit". "Commentators consistently references this, but it all hinges on mental resilience. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, unrealistic play," stated Rory Ryding. "Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Wafting outside 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is primarily due to the frontline batsmen." Looking Ahead When questioned if he believed England will win a match in this Ashes series, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior right now." "It will require several individuals that stands up for England and produces a match-winning display." Even with the series lost, the fans are anticipating the trip. "It will be a wonderful trip regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "We have to go with that mindset." "Obviously it is unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have spent so much money already." "We'll enjoy spending the festive season overseas. Additionally, it's our first experience abroad at this time of year." A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her seasonal break. "As a backup plan, there's always golf to turn to," Katie concluded.