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England's attacking frailties were laid bare and capitalized on by a ruthless Australia as the visitors secured a worryingly straightforward win in the first match of the rugby league Ashes series.

The England coach's team had talked at length about their motivation going into the first Ashes for over two decades, and they were certainly not short on effort at the famous stadium. Yet, in the crucial moments, it was the world champions who displayed more calmness in front of a historic crowd for an series match in the UK of over sixty thousand spectators.

Outstanding Display from Walsh

Led by an exceptional display in offense and defense from Brisbane Broncos’ Walsh, the Kangaroos were deserving and convincing victors in the opening Test of the three-match series, meaning England must win at Goodison Park next Saturday to sustain their aspirations of a first Ashes win since the 1970s.

They will have to be significantly improved with the ball if they are to achieve that. On several instances in the opening period, the home team found themselves in promising positions but they were failed to score for any points. That was in large measure 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 opening try, then the fullback stopped Mikey Lewis as the break neared. By then, the Australians had taken the lead as Walsh himself finished a excellent move.

Nathan Cleary added the extras before adding a two-pointer on the stroke of half-time to establish a two-score advantage. It was a significant moment, as was the try for Angus Crichton shortly after the restart which made it fourteen to nil in favor of the Kangaroos. The hosts 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 a quarter-hour to go. Munster's half-break was backed up by Angus Crichton, who pushed past Welsby for the Kangaroos' third score.

That made it twenty to zero and there was added disappointment in the final minutes as Walsh completed another breathtaking attack, exploiting a weary and visibly shot England defense for his second try.

Final Score and Looking Ahead

By then, local supporters had begun to leave early and many missed Clark's late try, which at least avoided the home side being held to nil. However, there are many issues for Wane to answer going into what is now a must-win Test next Saturday.

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

• Australia: Starting lineup.
• Bench: Reserves.
• Scores: Reece Walsh (two), Angus Crichton (two).
• Kicks: Nathan Cleary (five).