PROP Craig Pettiford and second rower Conrad Van Kan were two of the best as Warwick went down 48-35 to Rangers in A-grade rugby union on Saturday.

Coach Ryan Smith missed the game with a knee injury which meant Alex Costello played halfback and Rick Johnson went from the bench to the side of the scrum.

“We made a couple of mistakes which led to Rangers tries but put in a big effort,” Smith said.

“Fred Walker had a strong game in the backline.”

Number eight Mitch Lamb landed five goals from five attempts, including three from the sideline.

Roger Ngariki scored two tries to lead the Warwick scorers.

In the under-17 game yesterday, Warwick went down 33-19 to Souths.

Warwick is at home to Roma in its final game of the season in A grade on Saturday at 3pm. Lamb is out with family commitments.

Smith is hoping for a full attendance of players at training on Thursday night.