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"The win could have been ours. We know the win was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at Murrayfield.

The hosts were behind seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had three players sent to the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a historic win in this match-up.

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the hard work that went into that second half showing was all character," Townsend remarked.

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

"Exceptional second half, we demonstrated our true selves today and we likely showed our identity by not getting the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we must win those crucial points when the game is there for us.

"Elements of that performance 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

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping 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 apply what we have gained.

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

"However it's so disheartening with that performance that we didn't get a win.

"It's the closest we've been to winning, I think. We controlled the later stages, territory, intensity, skill. 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 more important games to come in the championship."

Captain's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed the importance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

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

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

"It is essential we bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it any easier."