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England's offensive weaknesses were laid bare and capitalized on by a clinical Australia as the visitors swept to a worryingly straightforward victory in the first match of the rugby league Ashes series.

Shaun Wane’s team had talked at length about their drive going into the first Ashes for over two decades, and they were definitely full of endeavour at the famous stadium. However, in the crucial moments, it was the reigning title holders who displayed more calmness in front of a historic crowd for an series match in the UK of more than 60,000.

Outstanding Display from Walsh

Guided by an exceptional showing in offense and defense from Brisbane Broncos’ Reece Walsh, Australia were worthy and comfortable victors in the opening Test of the three-game contest, meaning England must triumph at Goodison Park next weekend to keep alive their hopes of a first Ashes win since the 1970s.

England will have to be much better with the possession if they are to accomplish that goal. On multiple occasions in the first half, the home team found themselves in advantageous situations but they were unable to cross for any points. That was in large measure thanks to Walsh, who executed two superb turnovers.

Crucial Plays of the Match

The initial came as Herbie Farnworth seemed destined to put Dom Young in for what would have been the opening try, then the fullback stopped Lewis as half-time neared. By then, the Australians had taken the lead as Walsh himself completed a wonderful play.

Nathan Cleary added the extras before adding a two-pointer on the stroke of half-time to establish a eight-point lead. It was a significant point, as was the score 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 momentum.

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 the Kangaroos' third score.

That made it twenty to zero and there was added disappointment in the final minutes as Reece Walsh completed another breathtaking move, taking advantage of a tired and visibly shot England defense for his second try.

Match Result and Outlook

By then, local supporters had begun to leave early and many missed 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 match next Saturday.

• England: Full team lineup.
• Interchange: Bench players.
• Tries: Clark.
• Goal: Lewis.

• Australia: Starting lineup.
• Interchange: Dearden, Collins, Cotter, Koloamatangi.
• Tries: Reece Walsh (two), Angus Crichton (two).
• Kicks: Cleary 5.