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England's offensive weaknesses were exposed and punished by a clinical Australian side as the tourists secured a surprisingly comfortable win in the opening Test of the Ashes.

Shaun Wane’s team had spoken effusively about their drive going into the opening series for 22 years, and they were definitely full of endeavour at the famous stadium. Yet, in the key instances, it was the reigning title holders who displayed more calmness in front of a record attendance for an series match in the United Kingdom of over sixty thousand spectators.

Outstanding Display from Reece Walsh

Led by an outstanding showing in attack and defence from club star Reece 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 aspirations of a series victory since the 1970s.

They will have to be significantly improved with the possession if they are to achieve that. On several instances in the first half, the home team found themselves in advantageous situations but they were unable to cross for any tries. That was in no small part thanks to Walsh, who executed two wonderful interceptions.

Key Moments of the Match

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

Cleary converted before adding a two-pointer on the brink of half-time to establish a eight-point lead. It was a pivotal moment, as was the try for Crichton soon after the restart which made it 14-0 in favor of the visitors. The hosts now had to cross the line thrice and that seemed to stifle their momentum.

Should there have been uncertainty about the winners, they were firmly put to bed with 15 minutes to go. Munster's half-break was supported by Crichton, who pushed past Jack Welsby for Australia’s third try.

That made it 20-0 and there was added disappointment in the final minutes as Walsh completed another breathtaking attack, taking advantage of a tired and clearly exhausted English defensive line for his second.

Match Result and Looking Ahead

By then, local supporters had begun to filter out and many missed Daryl Clark’s consolation, which at least avoided England finishing scoreless. However, there are many issues for the coach to address going into what is now a must-win Test next weekend.

• Home Side: Full team lineup.
• Interchange: Litten, Walmsley, Trout, McMeeken.
• Try: Clark.
• Goal: Lewis.

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