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

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

Scotland trailed seventeen to nil at the interval, only to storm 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 opportunity of a historic win in this fixture.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that latter period performance was all character," Townsend stated.

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we demonstrated who we are today and we likely showed who we are by not getting the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we must win those crucial points when the game is there for us.

"Elements of that game show we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the opponents.

"Opponents 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 facing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to put in what we have gained.

"It marks the first time this squad has played together since the tournament. To get that unity straight away is challenging and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to winning, I think. We dominated the second half, territory, pressure, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Response

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" 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 the break," he said. "Either we lie down or decide to go for it.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."