'I always go through! — Ilona Maher revels in memorable debut for Bristol Bears as they claim vital PWR 15s victory

There was no better way for American rugby star to announce her arrival to the English Premiership Women’s Rugby scene than guiding the to victory on her full debut.

The Paris 2024 rugby sevens bronze medallist opened her English rugby union account with a try and a win on her first start for the Bristol Bears on January 12as she continues her re-adaptation to rugby 15s.

Ilona Maher, the American social media figure, does things she feels make her happy irrespective of the criticism thrown her way

Maher assisted Meg Varley in the 41-31 victory against Exeter Chiefs to extend the West Country side’s lead in the second half, before scoring the first points of her PWR career with an excellent try, driving through the Chiefs defence and fending off tackles to ease over the line.

«I don’t go around people, I always go through!» Maher told the .

Ilona Maher has signed with the Bristol Bears team and is already having an impact despite not playing.

Bristol Bears sit mid-table in fifth as they push for a return to the play-offs, where they finished third in the regular season last year. Maher joined the Bears in December 2024 on a short-term deal with an eye on the Rugby World Cup, which begins in England on August 22, 2025.

The American hopes her 15s performances will help her secure a spot in the US squad this summer. «To get my feet wet in this will really help me going to a World Cup and being the best for my team, Team USA,» Maher added.

«It’s been so great, the team is literally so welcoming and it’s such a cool environment to learn in, so it’s the best team I could’ve chosen.»