North Queensland Fury FC coach Ian Ferguson has dropped number one keeper Paul Henderson for the club’s round five Hyundai A-League clash with the Brisbane Roar at Dairy Farmers Stadium.
The thirty-three year old officially signed with the club just days before the season opener, since then the Fury-s conceded 12 goals in its opening four outings.
“It was a tough call,” Ferguson admitted.
“I talked to Paul (Henderson) … I told him I was making the decision and it was final.”
“It’s up to Paul now to try and push his way back and try and get his spot back, because he was always going to be my number one.
“But Justin’s (Pasfield) got the opportunity now, the ball’s in his court and if he takes it then it’s hard for Paul to get back in there,” he said.
Twenty-four-year-old Pasfield has had stints with Newcastle and Sydney but has never started in a game in four seasons.
Now that he has gotten his chance, he doesn’t want to let it go.
“It’s just a relief for me for all the hard work I’ve put in over the last four years,” Pasfield said.
“I’ve always said to myself if I do get an opportunity … I’ll be ready and I think now is the time. I’m not going to be just a number two goal keeper anymore,” he said.
“I’ve had my time on the bench”.
Pasfield did play in both of North Queensland-s pre-season victories, keeping a clean sheet during its 1-0 win over the Roar.
He’s hoping to do the same again when it counts.
“It’s an opportunity for me to come in and do well, it-s been a long time coming for me,” he said.
Meantime, with Qantas Socceroo Shane Stefanutto unavailable due to the international friendly against Korea, Ferguson has confirmed Chris Tadrosse will fill his boots at left back.
While it is expected the club will give striker Jason Spagnuolo another week to recover from a hamstring injury.
