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

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but was deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at their home ground.

The hosts were behind 17-0 at the interval, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a historic win in this match-up.

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

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

"Exceptional second period, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably showed our identity by failing to secure the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we have to win those big moments when the match is there for us.

"Aspects of that game indicate we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Match

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

"Teams get tired when you apply pressure," 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 playing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we must put in what we have learned.

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

"However it's so frustrating with that performance that we failed to achieve a win.

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I think. We dominated the later stages, field position, intensity, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the encounter.

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

Skipper's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "bittersweet" and emphasized the significance of a win against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we required a reaction at half time," he said. "Either we lie down or choose to fight back.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

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