Hearts racing for the Matildas nail-biter

Team spirit is strong both in and out of the wards at Westmead Hospital’s cardiology department.

Clinical nurse educator Adrian Biasi and nurse Ellie Wearne know their hearts will beat as one in support of the Matildas in their must-win game at the Women’s World Cup in France on Wednesday morning.

Following a disappointing loss against Italy and a stunning come-from-behind win over rivals Brazil, Australia faces Jamaica looking to secure a spot in the final 16.

And if the crucial match goes anything like their last game it’s sure to send heart monitors off the charts.

Adrian and Ellie are confident of a win and believe the team can at least match their performance at the previous World Cup by reaching the quarter-finals, thanks to the star power in the squad.

“Sam Kerr is a phenomenal talent, she’s a global household name and proof that Australia produces world-class football talent,” Adrian said.

Ellie prefers to cheer on her namesake, rising star Ellie Carpenter, who signed for Western Sydney Wanderers and made her national team debut at just 15.

“She’s only 19 and one of the most exciting players to watch, and she’s only going to get better,” Ellie said.

Adrian and Ellie are each keen footballers, playing for Epping Eastwood Tigers and North Rocks respectively.

As fans they’re excited to see the growth in the women’s game, and would love to see Australia host the next Women’s World Cup in 2023.

“It’d be great for football in Australia. The domestic stars are already leading the charge for women’s football and women’s sport in general,” Adrian said.

“A World Cup in Australia would be exactly what we need to go to the next level with a young squad and more talent rising.”

“It’s a very exciting thought,” Ellie added. “I’d be at every game and I think they could win the whole thing.”