ASHLEY Giles tasted defeat at Lord's as Australia took a 1-0 lead in the Ashes series, after a comprehensive victory over England over the weekend.

The Droitwich resident was unable to slow down the world champions as they romped to a 239 run victory in three and half days.

Giles missed out on a pulsating day's action on Friday, July 21, as Steve Harmison took 5-43 to bowl Australia out for 190.

However, the visitors responded emphatically as fast bowler Glenn McGrath (5-43) reduced England to 21-5.

While Kevin Pietersen (57) did his best to rally England, Giles was unable to make an impact as he was dismissed for 11 runs by Brett Lee and England were bowled out for 155.

The Warwickshire spinner then bowled expensively (0-56 in 11 overs) as Australia went about setting England a large total to chase.

England had the Aussies at 289-9, but Simon Katich (67) helped his side to 384, setting the hosts a total of 420 for victory.

England collapsed to 119-5 by the end of Saturday and Giles joined Pietersen (64) at the crease on Sunday.

However, McGrath (4-29) removed Giles for a duck as England crumbled to 180 all out.

l Giles will be hoping for better luck on his home county ground, as England look to draw level with the Australians at Edgbaston on Thursday, August 4.