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

Shaun Wane’s side had talked at length about their drive going into the opening series for 22 years, and they were definitely full of effort at Wembley. Yet, in the key instances, it was the reigning title holders who showed more composure 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 exceptional showing in offense and defense from Brisbane Broncos’ Walsh, Australia were deserving and convincing winners in the opening Test of the three-game contest, meaning the hosts must triumph at Goodison Park next Saturday to keep alive their hopes of a first Ashes win since the 1970s.

They will have to be significantly improved with the possession if they are to accomplish that goal. On multiple occasions in the opening period, the hosts found themselves in advantageous situations but they were unable to cross for any tries. That was in no small part thanks to Walsh, who pulled off two superb interceptions.

Crucial Plays of the Match

The first came as Herbie Farnworth seemed certain to put Dom Young in for what would have been the first score, then the fullback stopped Lewis as the break approached. By then, the Australians had gone ahead as Walsh himself finished a excellent play.

Nathan Cleary added the extras before kicking a two-pointer on the stroke of half-time to open up a two-score lead. It was a pivotal moment, as was the score for Crichton soon after the resumption 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 firmly put to bed with 15 minutes to go. Munster's line break was supported by Crichton, who broke through Welsby for the Kangaroos' third score.

That made it twenty to zero and there was further humiliation in the final minutes as Walsh finished another breathtaking attack, taking advantage of a tired and clearly exhausted England defense for his second try.

Final Score and Looking Ahead

By then, local supporters had begun to leave early and many did not see Clark's consolation, which at least prevented England being held to nil. Nonetheless, there are many issues for Wane to answer going into what is now a must-win match next weekend.

• Home Side: Full team lineup.
• Interchange: Bench players.
• Try: Clark.
• Conversion: Lewis.

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