Australia won the first Ashes Test by five wickets to take a one-nil lead into the second and final Test in Sydney.

Powerful batting from captain Belinda Clark and Karen Rolton helped the home side to erode England's lead of 138.

The pair posted a second wicket partnership of 88 and Australia looked like they would reach their target with some comfort.

But England took four quick wickets to leave Australia on 111-5 and needing 27 to win.

England captain Clare Connor had hoped for the addition of up to 30 runs on England's overnight total of 86-8 but the tail added just six to reach a disappointing 92 all out.

Connor and her team can take some comfort from their performance, especially in the field, and the knowledge that they are closing the gap on the world's leading women's team.

"We are disappointed because we bowled them out for 78 and blew them away but then didn't put enough pressure on them with the bat," she said.

"It was good to compete with them in every session though, and at one point this afternoon it was swinging our way again.

"We'll look forward to having another chance against them in Sydney on Saturday".