Pasfield, 25, has enjoyed a breakout season with North Queensland Fury capped by an eye-catching performance last week in the dramatic 2-2 AAMI park draw with Melbourne Victory.

His spectacular stop of a Carlos Hernandez bullet was one of a number of top-drawer saves that kept a desperate Fury in the contest. The Wollongong-born shot-stopper is now the undisputed number one at the North Queensland franchise.

Pasfield's assured performances have reflected a confidence coursing through the Fury squad courtesy of new coach Franz Straka.

The one-time Wollongong Wolves and AIS keeper waited long enough for his chance.

An understudy to ever-present Bolton at Sydney FC till 2007, there were subsequent stints at Roar and Newcastle as well as state league clubs but his career seemed to lack any traction.

The net result was just one appearance in the A-League till last season. But he learnt off some of the best in the business such as Bolton, Ante Covic and Liam Reddy. And that's begun to show.

Last season Pasfield claimed the number one jersey and 13 appearances at Fury, and despite playing in only half the games, impressed local fans named him player of the year in an online poll.

This season Pasfield's taken his game to another level, Bolton told au.fourfourtwo.com.

“Justin has finally got his chance at North Queensland," said the former Sydney glovesman. "He’s done the hard yards and was outstanding last week against Melbourne Victory.

“I know the last period he was at Sydney FC he progressed really well. I’m happy he’s doing well.”

What's more, he paid tribute to Pasfield’s bubbly personality for helping during the tough first season at Sydney.

A long and very arduous pre-season culminated in a championship under Pierre Littbarski - but it was extremely tough for all the squad.

“He probably kept me sane throughout that first year [in the A-League]. It was a long, long season,” Bolton said.

“He’s a good character. He’s a fun guy to be around and I actually got along with him really well and enjoyed his company. He sort of took on a lighter side of life which was good to be around.”

One example was the sight of Pasfield wearing a white suit at a club presentation night, which Bolton recalled said much about Pasfield's enjoyable persona.

“It’s just a little insight into to what he’s like," he said. "He’s out there. He’s a loud character but a good character to have around.

"But all that aside, he’s a good keeper as well. He’s still young and there’s no reason why he can’t go far."

The Heart keeper added that after years of trying to establish himself, Pasfield now needs to realise the opportunity he has.

He added: “He’s got his chance now.

"I just really hope he appreciates what he has now and goes on with it.”