Ilona Maher Shines as Bristol Bears Push for Semi-Finals in Premiership Women's Rugby

Bristol Bears' head coach Dave Ward has praised the performance of USA international Ilona Maher, describing her as 'getting better and better' as the team heads into their final regular season game against Harlequins. With the match set for Friday night at Twickenham Stoop, the Bears are in a must-win situation to keep their hopes alive for a top-four finish and a semi-final spot.

Maher, who joined Bristol in January, has quickly made her mark, scoring three tries in five matches. Her two tries in the recent 45-17 victory over Exeter were particularly notable, showcasing her ability to handle high-pressure situations. 'She's massively keen for us to get to the semi-finals,' Ward commented on BBC Radio Bristol. 'She wants to play in some knockout rugby as well because she's getting better and better in terms of 15s and the experiences she's having.'

The upcoming game against Harlequins presents a challenging test for Bristol, as Harlequins have already secured their spot in the top four. However, Ward remains optimistic, stating, 'We played well in parts against Loughborough and against Trailfinders as well so we're not in a bad vein of form ourselves in terms of try-scoring.' The team is looking to build on their defensive improvements from the last game to secure a crucial win.

Beyond the immediate challenge, Maher's impact has been a significant boost for Bristol Bears. Her transition from rugby sevens to 15s has been smooth, and her performances are a testament to her adaptability and skill. As the season reaches its climax, all eyes will be on Maher and the Bears as they aim to make a strong push towards the semi-finals.