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"The win was there. We are aware victory was there."

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced pride in the Scottish performance versus New Zealand but felt deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind 17-0 at the half, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that second half performance was all character," Townsend stated.

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

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

"There's growth in this team and we must win those big moments when the match 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 next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Scores 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 been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

"I'd love to be facing New Zealand again next week. We play Argentina and we must apply what we have learned.

"It marks the initial occasion this squad has played together since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

"But it's so disheartening with that performance that we didn't get a win.

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

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

Skipper's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and stressed the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

"I told the boys we needed a reaction at the break," he said. "Either surrender or choose to fight back.

"There was nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"We have to bounce back for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."