Keenan, who considered not playing this season after he returned home in February amid the coronavirus pandemic overseas following a stint with French club Saint-Gaudens Bears, injured his shoulder early in proceedings in Sunday's first round.

The playmaker, who was used off the bench in last year's grand final win, is awaiting scan results but says "it doesn't feel good' and "highly doubts" if he'll be back on the paddock during this campaign.

"Did all the rehab I could do but just can't practice landing in awkward positions." Keenan, who had been sidelined with a similar issue while playing the Elite One Championship, said.

The Rosellas had already lost both Walsh brothers in recent months, Ryan going down with an ACL and reigning Newcastle RL player of the year Luke opting not to take part in the rescheduled season.

However, Wests coach Todd Lowrie may have uncovered a new pivot with Tom Rouse making an impression.

"Sam busted his shoulder in the first minute so that's the third half we've lost this year," Lowrie said. "Tom Rouse went from hooker to halfback, scored a try at a good time and did a fair job for us."

The Rosellas beat Lakes 20-10 at Cahill Oval with Kiah Cooper sealing the win with a late try.

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