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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced pride in the Scottish performance versus New Zealand but felt disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at their home ground.

The hosts trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had three players sent to the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a historic win in this fixture.

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

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a few big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

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

"There's growth 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 must make that next step."

Key Moments of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an absorbing contest.
• 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.

"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 manager - all by single digit margins.

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we need to put in what we have gained.

"It marks the initial occasion this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that unity immediately is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

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

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game coming up and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Response

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

"I told the boys we needed a response at the break," he said. "Either surrender or decide to go for it.

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

"We have to bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it any easier."