Imperialist remains in Queensland Derby contention after bouncing back with a surprise victory in the Rough Habit Plate (2000m) at Doomben.

The win has kept the door open for a run in the Queensland Derby (2400m) at Eagle Farm in two weeks, despite doubts over his staying ability.

Trainer Chris Waller admitted the colt struggled over the 2400m when finishing near last in the ATC Australian Derby.

“He brought some good form to Sydney from Melbourne then just didn’t quite stay the 2400 in the Derby,” Waller said.

“We’ve got a little bit of concern about the 2400.”

Sent out a $61 outsider with online betting sites, Imperialist stunned punters after a gear tweak and front-running tactics paid off.

“We tried blinkers (in the Guineas) and it just didn’t work,” Waller said.

“So we took them off and suggested to Tommy we ride him a bit closer.”

Jockey Tommy Berry agreed the tactical shift made the difference and praised Waller’s staying training prowess.

“If he says he will get him to stay again, he will get him to stay,” Berry said.

Following the win, Imperialist shortened from $101 to $15 for the Queensland Derby, with King Of Thunder still leading the market at $6.