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England's attacking frailties were exposed and punished by a clinical Australia as the tourists swept to a surprisingly comfortable win in the opening Test of the Ashes.

The England coach's side had spoken effusively about their motivation going into the opening series for 22 years, and they were certainly not short on endeavour at Wembley. However, in the crucial moments, it was the world champions who showed more composure in front of a historic crowd for an series match in the UK of more than 60,000.

Outstanding Display from Walsh

Led by an exceptional display in attack and defence from club star Reece Walsh, Australia were deserving and convincing winners in the first match of the three-match series, meaning the hosts must win at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium next Saturday to sustain their hopes of a first Ashes win since 1970.

They will have to be significantly improved with the possession if they are to achieve that. On several instances in the first half, the home team found themselves in advantageous situations but they were unable to cross for any tries. That was in no small part thanks to Reece Walsh, who pulled off two superb interceptions.

Crucial Plays of the Game

The initial came as Farnworth seemed certain to put Young in for what would have been the opening try, then Walsh stopped Lewis as the break approached. By then, the Kangaroos had gone ahead as Reece Walsh himself completed a wonderful move.

Nathan Cleary added the extras before adding a two-pointer on the stroke of half-time to establish a eight-point advantage. It was a pivotal moment, 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 cross the line thrice and that seemed to halt their drive.

If there were any doubt about the winners, they were firmly put to bed with 15 minutes to go. Cameron Munster’s line break was supported by Crichton, who pushed past Welsby for the Kangaroos' third score.

That made it 20-0 and there was further humiliation in the final minutes as Walsh finished another breathtaking attack, exploiting a weary and visibly shot England defensive line for his second try.

Match Result and Looking Ahead

By then, local supporters had begun to filter out and many did not see Daryl Clark’s consolation, which at least prevented England 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: Bench players.
• Tries: Daryl Clark.
• Conversion: Mikey Lewis.

• Australia: Starting lineup.
• Interchange: Dearden, Collins, Cotter, Koloamatangi.
• Scores: Walsh 2, Crichton 2.
• Kicks: Nathan Cleary (five).