Ilona Maher reacts to being snapped while showing her playful side ahead of Bristol Bears debut

Ilona Maher has made her highly anticipated Premier 15s debut for the Bristol Bears, drawing a record crowd of 9,240 fans to Ashton Gate. Reflecting on the event, she displayed trademark humor when the camera captured her in the stands.

While the match ended in disappointment for the Bears, the 28-year-old's debut was a major attraction, bringing fans from across the UK, including first-time rugby spectators. The game opened with early pressure from Bristol, but Gloucester struck first with a try by their in-shape fullback, Emma Sing.

Bristol responded quickly as league-leading try-scorer Millie David crossed the line for her 12th try of the season. Despite Bears' promising start, Gloucester dominated the second half. Co-captain Mo Hunt shifted momentum with a decisive try, followed by scores from Maud Muir, Rachel Lund, Mia Venner, and Georgie Brock.

Despite Bears' struggles during the match, the Olympic bronze medalist's humorous reaction in the stands captured the crowd's attention when the camera panned to her. RugbyPass on Instagram shared a snapshot of Ilona Maher from the moment with the caption:

"Almost 10,000 fans are at Ashton Gate for the introduction of Ilona Maher to PWR 🙌"

Maher reshared the post on her Instagram story and wrote:

"I literally can't be serious, ever."

Screenshot of Ilona Maher's Instagram Story/ Source: Instagram/ @ilonamaher

The rugby star entered the match in the 61st minute to a rousing ovation. Despite limited time on the field, her defensive efforts earned commendation. She is currently on a three-month contract with Bristol Bears. Reflecting on her club and PWR debut, she shared her thoughts after the match.

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Ilona Maher reflects on her debut with Bristol Bears in Premiership Women's Rugby

Ilona Maher (R) during Bristol Bears v Gloucester-Hartpury - Allianz Premiership Women's Rugby post-game interview - Source: Getty

After her debut match against Gloucester at Ashton Gate on January 5, Ilona Maher opened up about her experience with the club and the PWR league. She discussed the challenges of transitioning from rugby sevens to the 15s format, highlighting the structured play and tactical systems unique to the game. The rugby player also embraced her teammates for creating a supportive and welcoming environment.

In a post-game interview with TNT Sports, Maher addressed the record-breaking crowd at the stadium, reflecting on the remarkable fan turnout and its significance for the league. She was asked:

"Another major highlight of today is the fact that 9,240 fans came to watch Bristol Bears to take on loss to heart. We know that this a derby, it attracts lots of fans anyway, but that is a record for Bristol Bears, and I mean that's largely down to you as well, so what do you make of that?" (2:53)

Maher responded:

"I said this before, if I'm what gets them to a game, awesome, but I hope that they stay and realize the rugby that's being played and they come back for another game. I think it's like getting them in the door, showing them what this is about and the level that's being played now. I mean, it's completely different than it was three years ago."

During the interview, Ilona Maher highlighted her flexibility in playing on the wing, emphasizing her desire to contribute to the team. Although she didn't receive many touches in this game, she remains eager for more opportunities.