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"The win could have been ours. We are aware victory was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in the Scottish performance versus New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

Scotland trailed seventeen to nil at the interval, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

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

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the effort that went into that second half showing was all character," Townsend remarked.

"It was crucial to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a couple of key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we showed who we are today and we likely revealed our identity by failing to secure the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we must win those big moments when the match 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 Match

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

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

"It marks the first time this squad 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 disheartening with that performance that we didn't get a win.

"It represents the nearest we've come to victory, I believe. We dominated the second half, field position, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the encounter.

"The team's path continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and bigger games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "bittersweet" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

"I told the boys we needed a response at half time," he said. "We could surrender or choose to fight back.

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

"We have to bounce back for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."