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"Victory was there. We are aware victory was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but was deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that second half showing was pure determination," Townsend stated.

"We needed to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a couple of key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we demonstrated who we are today and we likely revealed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we must win those crucial points when the match is there for us.

"Elements of that performance indicate we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Game

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

"Opponents get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

"I'd love to be facing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to apply what we have gained.

"It marks the initial occasion this team has played together since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

"But it's so disheartening with that performance that we didn't get a win.

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I believe. We controlled the second half, field position, pressure, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

"The team's path continues today. We have a very big game next week and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a reaction at half time," he said. "We could surrender or decide to fight back.

"There was nothing to lose and all to play for.

"We have to bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."