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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's display against New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

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

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the effort that went into that latter period showing was all character," Townsend stated.

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

"Outstanding second period, we showed 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 have to win those big moments when the game is there for us.

"Elements 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 Match

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an absorbing battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the opponents.

"Opponents get fatigued 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 narrow margins.

"I'd love to be facing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we need to put in what we have learned.

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

"However it's so frustrating with that effort that we didn't get a win.

"It represents the nearest we've come to victory, I think. We controlled the later stages, territory, intensity, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the encounter.

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

Captain's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a win 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. "We could surrender or choose to go for it.

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"It is essential we recover for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."