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"Victory was there. We are aware victory was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

Scotland were behind seventeen to nil at the half, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this match-up.

"I feel let down 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 seventeen all and there were a few key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second half, we demonstrated who we are today and we likely revealed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we must win those big moments when the game is there for us.

"Elements of that game show we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping 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 visitors.

"Teams get tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by narrow margins.

"I would like 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 been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

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

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

Skipper'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 instructed the boys we required a response at the break," he said. "We could we lie down or choose to go for it.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

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