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England's offensive weaknesses were exposed and punished by a ruthless Australian side as the visitors swept to a surprisingly comfortable win in the opening Test of the rugby league Ashes series.

The England coach's team had spoken effusively about their drive going into the opening series for 22 years, and they were certainly not short on effort at the famous stadium. 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 over sixty thousand spectators.

Brilliant Performance from Reece Walsh

Guided by an outstanding showing in offense and defense from club star Walsh, the Kangaroos were worthy and comfortable victors in the first match of the three-game contest, meaning the hosts must win at Goodison Park next Saturday to sustain their hopes of a series victory since 1970.

They will have to be much better with the ball if they are to achieve that. On several instances in the opening period, the home team found themselves in advantageous situations but they were unable to cross for any tries. That was in large measure thanks to Reece Walsh, who pulled off two wonderful interceptions.

Crucial Plays of the Game

The initial occurred as Farnworth seemed certain to put Dom Young in for what would have been the first score, then Walsh denied Lewis as the break approached. By then, the Kangaroos had gone ahead as Walsh himself completed a excellent move.

Nathan Cleary converted before adding a penalty on the brink of the interval to open up a two-score lead. It was a significant moment, as was the try for Crichton soon after the resumption which made it fourteen to nil in favour of the visitors. England now had to score three times and that seemed to halt their momentum.

Should there have been uncertainty about the winners, they were firmly put to bed with 15 minutes to go. Cameron Munster’s line 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 completed another scintillating move, exploiting a tired and visibly shot England defensive line for his second.

Final Score and Outlook

By then, home fans had begun to leave early and many did not see Daryl Clark’s late try, which at least avoided the home side finishing scoreless. However, there are plenty of questions for Wane to address going into what is now a must-win Test next weekend.

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

• Australia: Walsh; Nawaqanitawase, Staggs, Shibasaki, Addo-Carr; Munster, Cleary; Carrigan, Grant, Fa’asuamaleaui, Crichton, Young, Yeo.
• Bench: Dearden, Collins, Cotter, Koloamatangi.
• Scores: Reece Walsh (two), Angus Crichton (two).
• Goals: Cleary 5.