Bristol Bears' Triumph at Ashton Gate

Bristol Bears showcased their strength with a decisive 45-17 victory over Exeter Chiefs at Ashton Gate, propelling them to fourth place in the Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) league. This win not only boosts their playoff hopes but also demonstrates their potential as serious contenders for the title.

Key Players and Performance

• Lark Atkin-Davies: The Bristol hooker was in exceptional form, scoring a hat-trick of tries, setting the tone for the match.
• Ilona Maher: The American star, who joined Bristol in December, scored two tries, highlighting her impact on the team.
• Keira Bevan and Abbie Ward: Both added to the scoreline, contributing to a well-rounded team performance.

Impact on the League Standings

The victory places Bristol three points ahead of Exeter, who dropped to fifth. Bristol's early bonus point from four first-half tries was crucial in securing their position. Meanwhile, Exeter still has a game in hand, keeping the competition tight.

Trailfinders' Pursuit for Top-Six

In another PWR match, Trailfinders edged closer to a top-six finish by defeating Sale Sharks 33-20. Key tries from Kate Zackary, Grace White, Abi Burton, and Julia Schell ensured a bonus point win. Trailfinders are now just two points behind sixth-placed Loughborough Lightning, with a game in hand.

Looking Ahead

With the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup on the horizon, players like Ilona Maher are using their time in the PWR to refine their skills and enhance their chances of national selection. Teams are gearing up for the next matches, with the playoff race heating up.