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

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's display against New Zealand but was deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at their home ground.

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

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

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that latter period showing was pure determination," Townsend stated.

"We needed to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a couple of key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we showed our true selves today and we probably showed our identity 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.

"Aspects of that game show we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Game

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

"Teams get tired when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by narrow margins.

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

"It marks the first time this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

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

"It's the closest we've been to victory, I think. We dominated the second half, territory, intensity, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and more important games to come in the championship."

Captain's Reaction

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a win against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a reaction at half time," he said. "Either we lie down or decide to go for it.

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

"We have to bounce back for next week because Argentina will not make it simpler."