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England's attacking frailties were laid bare and capitalized on by a ruthless Australian side as the visitors swept to a worryingly straightforward win in the first match of the Ashes.

Shaun Wane’s side had spoken effusively about their motivation going into the first Ashes for 22 years, and they were definitely full of endeavour at Wembley. However, in the crucial moments, it was the world champions who showed more calmness in front of a record attendance for an series match in the UK of over sixty thousand spectators.

Brilliant Display from Walsh

Led by an outstanding showing in attack and defence from Brisbane Broncos’ Walsh, the Kangaroos were worthy and comfortable victors in the first match of the three-match series, meaning England must win at Goodison Park next weekend to keep alive their hopes of a series victory since 1970.

They will have to be significantly improved with the ball if they are to accomplish that goal. On multiple occasions in the opening period, the hosts found themselves in promising positions but they were unable to cross for any points. That was in no small part thanks to Walsh, who executed two wonderful turnovers.

Key Moments of the Match

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

Nathan Cleary added the extras before kicking a penalty on the brink of half-time to establish a eight-point advantage. It was a significant moment, as was the score for Crichton soon after the restart which made it fourteen to nil in favor of the Kangaroos. England now had to cross the line thrice and that seemed to halt their drive.

If there were any doubt about the victors, they were decisively settled with a quarter-hour to go. Cameron Munster’s line break was supported by Angus 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 Reece Walsh completed another scintillating move, taking advantage of a weary and visibly shot English defense for his second try.

Match Result and Outlook

By then, local supporters had begun to leave early and many did not see Daryl Clark’s consolation, which at least prevented England finishing scoreless. However, there are plenty of questions for the coach to answer going into what is now a do-or-die match next Saturday.

• England: Full team lineup.
• Substitutes: Litten, Walmsley, Trout, McMeeken.
• Tries: Clark.
• Goal: Mikey Lewis.

• Visitors: Starting lineup.
• Interchange: Dearden, Collins, Cotter, Koloamatangi.
• Tries: Walsh 2, Crichton 2.
• Kicks: Nathan Cleary (five).