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

Shaun Wane’s side 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 crucial moments, 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 Performance from Walsh

Led by an exceptional showing in offense and defense from Brisbane Broncos’ Walsh, Australia were worthy and comfortable winners in the opening Test of the three-game contest, meaning England must triumph at Goodison Park next Saturday to sustain their hopes of a series victory since the 1970s.

They will have to be significantly improved with the possession if they are to accomplish that goal. On multiple occasions in the first half, the hosts found themselves in advantageous situations but they were failed to score for any tries. That was in large measure thanks to Walsh, who pulled off two wonderful turnovers.

Crucial Plays of the Game

The first came as Farnworth seemed destined to put Young in for what would have been the opening try, then the fullback stopped Lewis as half-time approached. By then, the Australians had gone ahead as Walsh himself finished a wonderful move.

Nathan Cleary converted before kicking a two-pointer on the stroke of the interval to establish a two-score lead. It was a significant moment, as was the try for Angus Crichton soon after the resumption which made it fourteen to nil in favor of the visitors. England now had to score three times and that seemed to halt their drive.

If there were any doubt about the winners, they were firmly put to bed with 15 minutes to go. Munster's line break was backed up by Crichton, who broke through Jack Welsby for Australia’s third try.

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

Final Score and Looking Ahead

By then, home fans had begun to leave early and many did not see Daryl Clark’s late try, which at least avoided England being held to nil. However, there are many issues for the coach to answer going into what is now a do-or-die match next Saturday.

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

• Visitors: Walsh; Nawaqanitawase, Staggs, Shibasaki, Addo-Carr; Munster, Cleary; Carrigan, Grant, Fa’asuamaleaui, Crichton, Young, Yeo.
• Interchange: Dearden, Collins, Cotter, Koloamatangi.
• Tries: Walsh 2, Crichton 2.
• Goals: Nathan Cleary (five).