Maher scores first Bristol try in win at Exeter

Ilona Maher’s first try for Bristol Bears helped them to a dramatic 41-31 Premiership Women’s Rugby win at Exeter Chiefs.

The American back, whose three-month contract with the Bears began this month, had made her debut as a substitute in a defeat by Gloucester-Hartpury last weekend.

The Bears took the lead when she scored a try from teammate Phoebe Murray in the opener against the Chiefs.

Before the visitors were awarded a penalty try, Liv McGoverne then went over for Exeter and touched down Reneeqa Bonner.

Taylor Perry’s try reduced the deficit but Exeter went into the break 19-14 behind.

Before Bristol restored their lead with a Meg Varley penalty try and another try, Claudia MacDonald added a try to equalize the game.

After Maher’s first try, Bristol held on for the win in the form of Alex Tessier and MacDonald, who Alex Tessier and MacDonald overcame for Exeter.

Maher told TNT Sports, “The team is so welcoming and it’s such a cool environment to learn in.”

“It’s the best team I could’ve chosen.