'People keep ribbing me' regarding the Ashes being over ahead of my trip.

Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what else would an Three Lions follower ask for?

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to secure the famous trophy after the first three Tests.

This is not the case this time, though, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on their own soil.

England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have a large group flying out for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.

In addition, there are tour groups who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a special expedition.

The Ryding Siblings

A group of four supporters are among those affected.

The four siblings had their itineraries and entry credentials booked for the fourth and fifth Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.

Sadly, they've observed Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their house in their hometown.

"Everyone at work has been making comments regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

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

Lowered Expectations

Hope was abundant concerning a potential victory of securing a first win in 15 years for a series win in Australia ahead of the tour.

But they are now staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

Ben Stokes' side - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

One sibling noted the "excitement and fun" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "reinvigorated" Test cricket for English supporters.

However, the group said they had low expectations for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"All analysts references this, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'The aggressive approach has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, impractical batting," added Rory.

"Over the course of five days, you should dig in. Chasing balls 'outside the line has never been in the fundamentals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."

The Remaining Matches

Prompted about he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."

"Necessarily, there must be several individuals that stands up for England and turns the game."

Regardless of the result, the group remains excited about the trip.

"We will have a fantastic experience nonetheless," commented Katie Ryding. "We have to go with that attitude."

"Naturally, it's disappointing we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount by now."

"We'll enjoy having Christmas and New Year overseas. This will be our first experience abroad over Christmas."

A schoolteacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the long-haul travel as part of her seasonal break.

"As a backup plan, I can play golf to turn to," she finished.