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"The win was there. We are aware victory was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but felt disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at their home ground.

Scotland were behind 17-0 at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this fixture.

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

"It was crucial to kick on 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 our true selves today and we probably revealed our identity by not getting the win as well.

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

"Elements of that performance show we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the opponents.

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

"I would like to be playing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we must apply what we have gained.

"It marks the initial occasion this squad has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.

"But it's so frustrating 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, intensity, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a response at half time," he said. "We could we lie down or decide to go for it.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."