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The home side's attacking frailties were exposed and punished by a ruthless Australian side as the visitors swept to a worryingly straightforward victory in the opening Test of the Ashes.

The England coach's side had spoken effusively about their motivation going into the first Ashes for 22 years, and they were certainly not short on effort at the famous stadium. Yet, 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.

Outstanding Performance from Reece Walsh

Guided by an outstanding showing in offense and defense from Brisbane Broncos’ Reece Walsh, Australia were worthy and comfortable winners in the opening Test of the three-game contest, meaning England must triumph at Goodison Park next Saturday to keep alive their hopes of a first Ashes win since the 1970s.

England will have to be much better with the possession if they are to accomplish that goal. On several instances in the first half, the home team found themselves in promising positions but they were unable to cross for any tries. That was in large measure thanks to Reece Walsh, who pulled off two wonderful turnovers.

Crucial Plays of the Game

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

Nathan Cleary added the extras before adding a two-pointer on the brink of half-time to establish a two-score advantage. It was a pivotal point, as was the score for Angus Crichton soon after the resumption which made it 14-0 in favour of the visitors. The hosts now had to score three times and that seemed to stifle their momentum.

If there were any doubt about the victors, they were decisively settled with 15 minutes to go. Munster's line break was backed up by 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 attack, taking advantage of a weary and visibly shot England defensive line for his second.

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 prevented England finishing scoreless. Nonetheless, there are plenty of questions for Wane to address going into what is now a must-win Test next Saturday.

• Home Side: Welsby; Young, Farnworth, Wardle, Johnstone; Williams, Lewis; Havard, Clark, Lees, Bateman, Pearce-Paul, Knowles.
• Substitutes: Bench players.
• Try: Daryl Clark.
• Goal: Lewis.

• Visitors: Starting lineup.
• Interchange: Reserves.
• Scores: Reece Walsh (two), Angus Crichton (two).
• Kicks: Cleary 5.