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England's attacking frailties were exposed and punished by a ruthless Australia as the tourists swept to a surprisingly comfortable win in the opening Test of the Ashes.

The England coach's side had spoken effusively about their drive 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 composure in front of a record attendance for an series match in the United Kingdom of more than 60,000.

Outstanding Display from Reece Walsh

Led by an outstanding display in offense and defense from Brisbane Broncos’ Walsh, the Kangaroos were deserving and convincing winners in the first match of the three-game contest, meaning the hosts must win at Goodison Park next Saturday to keep alive their aspirations of a first Ashes win since the 1970s.

They will have to be much better with the ball if they are to accomplish that goal. On several instances in the first half, the home team found themselves in advantageous situations but they were unable to cross for any points. That was in large measure thanks to Reece Walsh, who pulled off two superb interceptions.

Key Moments of the Match

The initial came as Herbie Farnworth seemed certain to put Dom Young in for what would have been the first score, then the fullback denied Lewis as half-time neared. By then, the Australians had taken the lead as Reece Walsh himself finished a excellent move.

Cleary added the extras before kicking a penalty on the stroke of the interval to establish a eight-point advantage. It was a significant point, as was the try for Angus Crichton shortly after the restart which made it fourteen to nil in favour of the Kangaroos. The hosts now had to score three times and that seemed to stifle their drive.

Should there have been uncertainty about the victors, they were decisively settled with 15 minutes to go. Cameron Munster’s line break was supported by Crichton, who broke through Welsby for Australia’s third try.

That made it 20-0 and there was further humiliation in the final minutes as Reece Walsh completed another breathtaking move, exploiting a tired and clearly exhausted England defense for his second.

Final Score and Outlook

By then, local supporters had begun to filter out and many missed Daryl Clark’s late try, which at least prevented England being held to nil. However, there are plenty of questions for Wane to answer going into what is now a do-or-die Test next weekend.

• Home Side: Full team lineup.
• Substitutes: Litten, Walmsley, Trout, McMeeken.
• Tries: Daryl Clark.
• Conversion: Lewis.

• Visitors: Walsh; Nawaqanitawase, Staggs, Shibasaki, Addo-Carr; Munster, Cleary; Carrigan, Grant, Fa’asuamaleaui, Crichton, Young, Yeo.
• Bench: Dearden, Collins, Cotter, Koloamatangi.
• Tries: Walsh 2, Crichton 2.
• Kicks: Cleary 5.