U.S. rugby star Ilona Maher has celebrated her first start for the Bristol Bears by powering over for a try in a 41-31 victory at the Exeter Chiefs.

Ilona Maher’s impact on women’s rugby in England had been significant even before she had stepped on a rugby pitch in the country. On Sunday came the American’s time to make a telling contribution on the field of play as she scored a sensational 70-yard try in her first start for her new team.

Ilona Maher capped her first start for Bristol Bears with her first Premiership Women's Rugby try in their 41-31 win over Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park.

U.S. rugby star Ilona Maher is set to make her first start for the Bristol Bears on Sunday at the Exeter Chiefs.

Ilona Maher scores stunning first Bristol Bears try in thrilling victory over Exeter; US rugby sevens stars laid on late try assist as the Bears remained in contention for Premiership Womens Rugby pla

Olympic rugby bronze medalist Ilona Maher made her debut on the pitch in England on Sunday, Jan. 5 — and it resulted in the Bristol Bears having to change stadiums to accommodate her fans.

Ilona Maher marked her first Premiership Women’s Rugby start with a try as Bristol boosted their hopes of reaching the play-offs with a gutsy win over derby rivals Exeter Chiefs.