Maher is arguably the world's most popular rugby player - male or female - and boasts the largest social media following of anyone in the sport, according to governing body World Rugby. She was signed by Bristol in December on a three-month deal.
Her popularity soared during the Paris Olympics, where she helped the US to bronze in rugby sevens. Following the Games, she was featured in Sports Illustrated's swimsuit issue and also finished runner-up on the US television show "Dancing With the Stars".
Sunday's crowd was a club and competition record for a standalone game, with Maher starting from the bench before being brought on in the 61st minute of the defeat to the league's defending champions.
"I think each game I am going to learn more and more. You do learn a lot by losing but also it puts a fire under you for the next game," Maher said after the match.