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

Shaun Wane’s side had spoken effusively about their motivation going into the first Ashes for 22 years, and they were certainly not short on endeavour at Wembley. Yet, in the key instances, it was the world champions who showed more calmness in front of a record attendance for an series match in the United Kingdom of over sixty thousand spectators.

Outstanding Display from Walsh

Led by an exceptional display in offense and defense from Brisbane Broncos’ Walsh, Australia were deserving and convincing victors in the first match of the three-game contest, meaning the hosts must win at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium next Saturday to keep alive their aspirations of a first Ashes win since 1970.

England will have to be much better with the ball if they are to accomplish that goal. On multiple occasions in the opening period, the home team found themselves in promising positions but they were unable to cross for any points. That was in large measure thanks to Reece Walsh, who executed two wonderful interceptions.

Key Moments of the Game

The first came as Farnworth seemed certain to put Dom Young in for what would have been the first score, then the fullback stopped Lewis as half-time neared. By then, the Kangaroos had gone ahead as Walsh himself completed a wonderful move.

Cleary converted before kicking a penalty on the stroke of the interval to open up a eight-point lead. It was a significant moment, as was the score for Angus Crichton soon after the restart which made it 14-0 in favour of the Kangaroos. England now had to cross the line thrice and that seemed to halt their drive.

Should there have been uncertainty about the victors, they were firmly put to bed with 15 minutes to go. Cameron Munster’s half-break was supported by Angus Crichton, who pushed past Welsby for Australia’s third try.

That made it 20-0 and there was added disappointment in the closing stages as Reece Walsh finished another breathtaking move, exploiting a tired and visibly shot English defense for his second.

Final Score and Looking Ahead

By then, home fans had begun to filter out and many did not see Daryl Clark’s late try, which at least prevented the home side finishing scoreless. However, there are plenty of questions for the coach to address going into what is now a do-or-die Test next weekend.

• England: Full team lineup.
• Substitutes: Litten, Walmsley, Trout, McMeeken.
• Tries: Clark.
• Conversion: Mikey Lewis.

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