Ilona Maher of Bristol Bears looks on during the Premiership Women's Rugby match against Exeter Chiefs. Photo / Getty Images
Social media sensation Ilona Maher celebrated her first start for Bristol by scoring a spectacular try to inspire a 41-31 win against Exeter on Sunday.
The American back, who won Olympic bronze at the 2024 Paris Games, has more than eight million followers across Instagram and TikTok, making her the
world’s most-followed rugby player
And the United States sevens ace lived up to the hype as she ran over half the pitch and evaded two tackles in a 55th-minute try that showcased her pace and power.
The 28-year-old, who has signed a three-month contract with Bristol, also underlined her ability as a creator.
She stepped off her wing to suck in three defenders before releasing Meg Varley to score the bonus-point try that keeps Bristol in contention for the Premiership Women’s Rugby play-offs.
