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

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in the Scottish display against New Zealand but felt deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at Murrayfield.

The hosts trailed 17-0 at the half, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members placed in the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the effort that went into that latter period performance was pure determination," Townsend stated.

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second half, we showed who we are today and we likely revealed our identity 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 game indicate we are competitive with the best teams 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 absorbing battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the visitors.

"Teams get tired when you apply pressure," 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 playing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we must apply what we have gained.

"It marks the initial occasion this team has played together since the Six Nations. To get that unity immediately is challenging and to see it develop during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've come to victory, I think. We dominated the later stages, field position, pressure, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the encounter.

"Our journey continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the importance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a response at half time," he said. "Either we lie down or choose to go for it.

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

"We have to bounce back for next week because Argentina will not make it any easier."