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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's display against New Zealand but was disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind 17-0 at the interval, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, 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 performance was all character," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a couple of big moments that went New Zealand's way.

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

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

"Aspects of that game indicate we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Key Moments of the Game

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled 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 notched points for the opponents.

"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 head coach - all by single digit margins.

"I would like to be facing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we need to apply what we have gained.

"This is the initial occasion this team has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is challenging and to see it develop during the game is positive.

"But it's so frustrating with that effort that we failed to achieve a win.

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I think. We controlled the second half, field position, pressure, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the experience.

"The team's path continues today. We have a crucial game next week and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Reaction

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

"I told the boys we required a response at half time," he said. "Either we lie down or decide to fight back.

"We had nothing to lose and all to play for.

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