The Chicago Red Stars had themselves a week.

Three games in an eight-game stretch. A 3-0 win over the Houston Dash, at home. 1-0 win on the road against the Orlando Pride. 3-0 over Sky Blue FC. An impressive run of results at an absolutely crucial time.

There’s a ton of wonderful things that happened over the course of these three matches, but there is truly only one thing we learned— reminded of, actually— and it’s this: Casey Short absolutely fucking rules.

Houston

Sure, the Red Stars were up by two goals before this brilliant goal from Savannah McCaskill happened, but we are truly inspired by Casey Short’s run here to heave this ball forward for the long range assist on this goal.

It’s a pass we’ve see throughout the season, which is part of what makes it so unfortunate that Short’s service to her teammates have only been able to account for 3 assists to the outside backs’ name this year. However, shout out to McCaskill for putting on the hustle and helping make this goal happen.

Orlando

Heading into Orlando on short rest is never easy, but the Pride have had some serious growing pains this year.

While Chicago was surging in the table, Orlando previously played spoiler in their last match beating the Red Stars, 2-1. Which is part of what made this match feel so uneasy to watch.

Travel, short rest, humidity, all factors in a a bit of a grudge match for Chicago. Add to the mix an outrageous performance from Ashlyn Harris in net to deny goal scoring opportunities from Chicago, mainly Sam Kerr.

With what looked like their final breath, in the fifth minute of stoppage time, Kerr received a ball wide and opted to serve in vs taking advantage of the space in front of her. With a cross and prayer, Short answered, sealing a victory for Chicago as the Red Stars walked away with their second win.

Sky Blue

Facing Sky Blue FC as their third match in eight days, and having lost to Sky Blue two previous times, surely felt like a tall order for Chicago.

The Red Stars would set the tone to their victory with a first half goal from Morgan Brian, her first in NWSL, also assisted by Sam Kerr. The play leading up to this goal, an aggressive high press by Casey Short, helped spearhead what would go on to be a 0-3 win for the Red Stars.

It would mark the third game in eight days where Short would start and play 90 minutes plus stoppage time, and in between opportunities in the attack, Short continued to do what she does best— defend.

Regardless of what the rest of the league thinks, Casey Short is our POTW. She should be yours, too.