As expected, England took Australia's remaining four wickets before lunch on day four to secure the fourth Ashes Test and ensure they will return from Australia with the Ashes for the first time since 1987.

Australia finished its second innings on 258 to lose this battle by an innings and 157 runs and with it the Ashes war.

It looked like Australia's tail had thrown in the towel, when, in just the second over of play, Mitchell Johnson (6) played on to a delivery pitched on the line and length that has made Chris Tremlett so dangerous in the last two matches.

Peter Siddle did not go down without a fight though and supported his six-wickets with the ball with an entertaining 40 alongside Brad Haddin. Both rode their luck - edging Swann between Matt Prior and Paul Collingwood - but for every edge a lusty blow came out of the middle of the bat, frequently for six.

Siddle's cameo ended just as thoughts began drifting into an afternoon session but one ambitious lofted drive too many found Kevin Pietersen at long-on.

Tim Bresnan signalled the start of celebrations in the next over, finding the edge of Ben Hilfenhaus' bat that Prior snaffled behind the stumps. It was perhaps fitting that Australia's innings should end by a batsman suffering a pair.

Brad Haddin remained unbeaten on 55 to enhance his status as the man for a fight.

Ryan Harris did not bat to prevent further injury to his left foot.

Tim Bresnan (4/50) was the pick of England's bowlers. His selection was another masterstroke in England's superb campaign. Graeme Swann (2/59) James Anderson (1/71) and Chris Tremlett (1/71) all performed their roles and contributed to a disciplined, punishing England bowling performance.

The final Test in Sydney begins next Monday. Who knows what state the Australian side will be in by then?

For now, credit has to be given to England for its comprehensive victory here in Melbourne and performance throughout the four Tests so far.

A final word of praise should be given to the Barmy Army. Its support has been relentless throughout the series and the crowd of around 30,000 that turned up to witness the 90 minutes of play today was predominately English, in full voice and ensured England's triumph had the soundtrack it deserved.