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England's attacking frailties were laid bare and capitalized on by a ruthless Australia as the tourists swept to a surprisingly comfortable win in the first match of the Ashes.

The England coach's team had talked at length about their motivation going into the opening series for over two decades, and they were definitely full of endeavour at Wembley. However, in the key instances, it was the world champions who displayed more calmness in front of a historic crowd for an series match in the United Kingdom of more than 60,000.

Outstanding Display from Reece Walsh

Led by an exceptional showing in attack and defence from club star Walsh, Australia were worthy and comfortable winners in the opening Test of the three-game contest, meaning England must triumph at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium next weekend to sustain their hopes of a series victory since the 1970s.

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

Crucial Plays of the Match

The initial came as Herbie Farnworth seemed certain to put Young in for what would have been the first score, then Walsh stopped Mikey Lewis as half-time neared. By then, the Australians had gone ahead as Reece Walsh himself finished a wonderful move.

Nathan Cleary converted before adding a two-pointer on the stroke of the interval to establish a eight-point lead. It was a pivotal moment, as was the try for Crichton soon after the resumption which made it 14-0 in favour of the visitors. England now had to score three times and that seemed to stifle their drive.

Should there have been uncertainty about the victors, they were firmly put to bed with a quarter-hour to go. Cameron Munster’s half-break was backed up 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 Walsh completed another scintillating attack, taking advantage of a weary and visibly shot English defense for his second try.

Match Result and Looking Ahead

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

• England: Full team lineup.
• Interchange: Litten, Walmsley, Trout, McMeeken.
• Tries: Clark.
• Goal: Mikey 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).
• Goals: Nathan Cleary (five).