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England's attacking frailties were exposed and punished by a ruthless Australian side as the tourists swept to a worryingly straightforward win in the opening Test of the Ashes.

Shaun Wane’s side 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 crucial moments, it was the reigning title holders who showed more calmness in front of a historic crowd for an series match in the UK of more than 60,000.

Outstanding Performance from Reece Walsh

Led by an outstanding showing in offense and defense from club star Reece Walsh, the Kangaroos were deserving and convincing winners in the opening Test of the three-match series, meaning the hosts must win at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium next weekend to keep alive their aspirations of a series victory since 1970.

They will have to be much better with the ball if they are to achieve that. On several instances in the opening period, the hosts 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 certain to put Young in for what would have been the first score, then the fullback denied Lewis as half-time neared. By then, the Australians had gone ahead as Walsh himself completed a wonderful move.

Nathan Cleary converted before adding a two-pointer on the stroke of the interval to establish a eight-point advantage. It was a significant point, as was the try for Angus Crichton soon after the restart which made it 14-0 in favor of the visitors. England now had to score three times and that seemed to halt their drive.

Should there have been uncertainty about the victors, they were firmly put to bed with a quarter-hour to go. Munster's half-break was supported by Crichton, who pushed past Jack Welsby for Australia’s third try.

That made it 20-0 and there was added disappointment in the final minutes as Walsh completed another breathtaking move, taking advantage of a weary and clearly exhausted English defense for his second.

Match Result and Outlook

By then, home fans had begun to filter out and many did not see Daryl 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 must-win match next weekend.

• Home Side: Full team lineup.
• Interchange: Bench players.
• Tries: Daryl Clark.
• Goal: Lewis.

• Visitors: Walsh; Nawaqanitawase, Staggs, Shibasaki, Addo-Carr; Munster, Cleary; Carrigan, Grant, Fa’asuamaleaui, Crichton, Young, Yeo.
• Bench: Reserves.
• Scores: Reece Walsh (two), Angus Crichton (two).
• Kicks: Cleary 5.