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The home side's attacking frailties were exposed and punished by a ruthless Australia as the tourists swept to a worryingly straightforward victory in the opening Test of the rugby league Ashes series.

Shaun Wane’s team had spoken effusively about their motivation going into the opening series for 22 years, and they were certainly not short on endeavour at Wembley. However, in the crucial moments, it was the world champions who showed more calmness in front of a record attendance for an series match in the UK of more than 60,000.

Outstanding Display from Walsh

Led by an exceptional showing in offense and defense from club star Walsh, the Kangaroos were deserving and convincing victors in the opening Test of the three-game contest, meaning England must triumph at Goodison Park next Saturday to keep alive their aspirations of a first Ashes win since the 1970s.

England will have to be much better with the ball if they are to accomplish that goal. On several instances in the opening period, the hosts found themselves in promising positions but they were unable to cross for any points. That was in large measure thanks to Reece Walsh, who pulled off two wonderful turnovers.

Crucial Plays of the Match

The initial came as Farnworth seemed certain to put Dom Young in for what would have been the first score, then the fullback denied Lewis as half-time approached. By then, the Australians had taken the lead as Reece Walsh himself finished a wonderful play.

Cleary added the extras before kicking a penalty on the brink of half-time to establish a two-score advantage. It was a significant point, as was the score for Angus Crichton shortly after the resumption which made it 14-0 in favor of the visitors. The hosts now had to score three times and that seemed to halt their drive.

Should there have been uncertainty about the winners, they were firmly put to bed with 15 minutes to go. Cameron Munster’s half-break was supported by Angus Crichton, who broke through Welsby for the Kangaroos' third score.

That made it twenty to zero and there was added disappointment in the final minutes as Walsh finished another breathtaking attack, exploiting a weary and clearly exhausted English defensive line for his second try.

Final Score and Looking Ahead

By then, local supporters had begun to filter out and many missed Clark's late try, which at least avoided England finishing scoreless. However, there are plenty of questions for Wane to answer going into what is now a must-win match next Saturday.

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

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