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The home side's offensive weaknesses were exposed and punished by a clinical Australia as the tourists swept to a worryingly straightforward win in the opening Test of the Ashes.

The England coach's team had talked at length about their drive going into the first Ashes for 22 years, and they were definitely full of effort at the famous stadium. However, in the crucial moments, it was the reigning title holders who displayed more calmness in front of a record attendance for an series match in the UK of over sixty thousand spectators.

Outstanding Performance from Walsh

Led by an exceptional showing in offense and defense from Brisbane Broncos’ Walsh, Australia were worthy and comfortable victors in the opening Test of the three-match series, meaning England must triumph at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium next weekend to sustain their aspirations of a series victory since the 1970s.

England will have to be much better with the ball if they are to accomplish that goal. On several instances in the opening period, the hosts found themselves in advantageous situations but they were unable to cross for any tries. That was in large measure thanks to Walsh, who pulled off two superb interceptions.

Key Moments of the Game

The initial came as Farnworth seemed destined to put Dom Young in for what would have been the first score, then the fullback stopped Lewis as half-time approached. By then, the Kangaroos had gone ahead as Walsh himself completed a wonderful move.

Nathan Cleary added the extras before kicking a two-pointer on the stroke of half-time to open up a two-score lead. It was a significant point, as was the try for Crichton shortly after the restart which made it 14-0 in favour of the Kangaroos. The hosts now had to cross the line thrice and that seemed to stifle their momentum.

If there were any doubt about the winners, they were firmly put to bed with 15 minutes to go. Cameron Munster’s half-break was backed up by Angus Crichton, who pushed past Welsby for the Kangaroos' third score.

That made it 20-0 and there was further humiliation in the closing stages as Reece Walsh finished another scintillating attack, taking advantage of a weary and visibly shot England defensive line for his second try.

Final Score and Outlook

By then, home fans had begun to filter out and many did not see Clark's late try, which at least avoided England finishing scoreless. However, there are many issues for Wane to answer going into what is now a do-or-die Test next Saturday.

• Home Side: Full team lineup.
• Substitutes: Bench players.
• Try: Clark.
• Goal: Lewis.

• Australia: Starting lineup.
• Bench: Reserves.
• Tries: Walsh 2, Crichton 2.
• Goals: Nathan Cleary (five).