Ilona Maher: Social media star marks first start for Bristol Bears with try | Rugby Union News

Ilona Maher marked her Bristol debut by scoring a try as part of an emotional display in the 41-31 win over Exeter at Sandy Park.

Maher, the most famous player in the game on social media with more than eight million followers, ran over half the field and blocked two attempts in the 55th minute thanks to her speed and strength.

The American sevens star also showed her value as a provider when she emerged from her flank to absorb three defenders before freeing Meg Farley to score the extra-point try that keeps Bristol in contention for the Women’s Rugby Super League qualifiers.

“I felt like I was a little bit seven,” Maher told TNT Sports. “My teammates worked to put me in front and I had to get past a couple of defenders. I thought, ‘Oh, that’s sevens!’” Maher told TNT Sports.

“I don’t walk around people, and that’s never been my thing – ever! I don’t walk around people, I’m always walking around. It’s not really normal for me.

“Now, when I have three people in front of me, how can I beat them? I was more proud to try to help. I took a small step there, which I’ve never done before.”

Maher won a bronze medal at last summer’s Olympic Games in Paris, and has her sights set on winning a spot on the United States’ squad that will compete in the World Cup hosted by England later this year.

A week ago she made her first 15th appearance since 2021 when she came off the bench in the 40-17 defeat to Gloucester-Hartpury.

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