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

Shaun Wane’s side had spoken effusively about their drive going into the opening series for over two decades, and they were certainly not short on endeavour at Wembley. However, in the key instances, it was the world champions who displayed more calmness in front of a record attendance for an Ashes Test in the United Kingdom of over sixty thousand spectators.

Brilliant Display from Reece Walsh

Guided by an exceptional display in offense and defense from club star Reece Walsh, Australia were worthy and comfortable winners in the first match of the three-match series, meaning England must win at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium next Saturday to sustain their hopes of a series victory since 1970.

They will have to be significantly improved with the possession if they are to accomplish that goal. On several instances in the opening period, the home team found themselves in advantageous situations but they were failed to score for any tries. That was in large measure thanks to Walsh, who pulled off two superb interceptions.

Crucial Plays of the Game

The first occurred as Farnworth seemed destined to put Dom Young in for what would have been the first score, then the fullback stopped Mikey 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 penalty on the stroke of half-time to establish a two-score advantage. It was a pivotal point, as was the try for Crichton shortly after the restart which made it 14-0 in favor of the visitors. 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 decisively settled with 15 minutes to go. Munster's half-break was supported by Angus Crichton, who broke through Jack Welsby for the Kangaroos' third score.

That made it twenty to zero and there was further humiliation in the closing stages as Walsh finished another breathtaking attack, exploiting a weary and clearly exhausted England defense for his second.

Match Result and Looking Ahead

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

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

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