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Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an Three Lions follower possibly want?

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to secure the famous trophy once the opening games are done.

This is not the case this time, though, after a comprehensive triumph in Adelaide put the hosts leading three-nil for the fourth successive Ashes series on home turf.

England's famous supporters' group, the organized fan base, have a large group making the journey for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.

Furthermore, other tour groups who will spend the Christmas period overseas, as well as relatives and companions planning a dream holiday.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are four such fans.

The group had their travel arrangements and match passes booked for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a rare England series success.

From afar, they've seen Australia outplay the visitors in just under two weeks from their family home in the north of England.

"All my colleagues has been making comments that the series is done for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"The hope was that we would have something to play for still when we got there."

Fading Positivity

Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of ending their 15-year wait for a victory down under prior to the first ball.

Yet now they are facing the prospect of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne this week.

The England team - and their followers - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent times had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for England fans.

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

"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all hinges on mental resilience. 'The aggressive approach has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.

"During a long match, you should hunker down. Playing at deliveries 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the textbooks, and that is mainly the fault the top order."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in the current series, one fan responded: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side right now."

"It will require several individuals that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

Despite the scoreline, the fans are excited about the trip.

"We are going to have a wonderful trip anyway," commented Katie Ryding. "We must adopt that mindset."

"Obviously it is unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount by now."

"We will make the most of celebrating the holidays in Australia. It is also a new experience for us traveling over Christmas."

A schoolteacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her Christmas holidays.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I've got golf to rely on," she finished.