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"Victory was there. We know the win was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in the Scottish performance against New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

The hosts trailed seventeen to nil at the interval, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

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

"I feel let down primarily, because the effort that went into that second half performance was all character," Townsend stated.

"We needed to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a few big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we demonstrated who we are today and we probably showed our identity by not getting the win as well.

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

"Aspects of that performance indicate we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just must make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the visitors.

"Teams get tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

"I would like to be facing New Zealand again next week. We play Argentina and we need to put in what we have learned.

"It marks the initial occasion this team has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

"However it's so frustrating with that effort that we didn't get a win.

"It's the closest we've been to winning, I think. We dominated the second half, field position, intensity, ability. We've not achieved 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 championship."

Captain's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and emphasized 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 the break," he said. "We could surrender or choose to go for it.

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

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina will not make it any easier."