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

The hosts were behind seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had three players 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 first of all, because the hard work that went into that second half performance was all character," Townsend stated.

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a few big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

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

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

"Elements of that game indicate we are competitive 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 first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the visitors.

"Opponents get tired when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by single digit margins.

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

"This is the initial occasion this team has been united since the tournament. To get that unity straight away is challenging and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

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

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I think. We controlled the later stages, field position, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

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

Captain's Response

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "bittersweet" and emphasized the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

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

"There was no downside and all to play for.

"We have to recover for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."