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England's attacking frailties were laid bare and capitalized on by a clinical Australia as the visitors secured a surprisingly comfortable victory in the first match of the Ashes.

The England coach's team had spoken effusively about their drive going into the first Ashes for over two decades, and they were definitely full of effort at Wembley. However, in the key instances, it was the reigning title holders who displayed more composure in front of a historic crowd for an series match in the UK of over sixty thousand spectators.

Brilliant Display from Reece Walsh

Led by an outstanding display in offense and defense from club star Reece Walsh, the Kangaroos were worthy and comfortable winners in the first match of the three-game contest, meaning England must triumph at Goodison Park next weekend to sustain their hopes of a first Ashes win since the 1970s.

They will have to be significantly improved with the ball if they are to achieve that. On several instances in the opening period, the home team found themselves in advantageous situations but they were failed to score for any points. That was in no small part thanks to Reece Walsh, who executed two superb turnovers.

Key Moments of the Match

The first occurred as Farnworth seemed certain to put Dom Young in for what would have been the first score, then the fullback stopped Lewis as the break neared. By then, the Australians had gone ahead as Reece Walsh himself finished a wonderful play.

Nathan Cleary converted before kicking a two-pointer on the brink of the interval to open up a eight-point advantage. It was a pivotal point, as was the try for Angus Crichton soon after the resumption which made it 14-0 in favour of the visitors. England now had to score three times and that seemed to halt their drive.

If there were any doubt about the winners, they were firmly put to bed with a quarter-hour to go. Cameron Munster’s half-break was supported by Angus Crichton, who broke through Welsby for Australia’s third try.

That made it 20-0 and there was further humiliation in the closing stages as Reece Walsh completed another breathtaking attack, taking advantage of a tired and visibly shot English defense for his second try.

Final Score and Looking Ahead

By then, home fans had begun to leave early and many did not see Clark's consolation, which at least prevented the home side finishing scoreless. However, there are many issues for Wane to address going into what is now a do-or-die Test next Saturday.

• Home Side: Full team lineup.
• Substitutes: Litten, Walmsley, Trout, McMeeken.
• Try: Clark.
• Goal: Lewis.

• Visitors: Starting lineup.
• Bench: Reserves.
• Scores: Walsh 2, Crichton 2.
• Kicks: Nathan Cleary (five).