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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

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

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

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the hard work that went into that second half showing was all character," Townsend remarked.

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

"Exceptional second period, we demonstrated who we are today and we likely showed our identity 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.

"Aspects of that game indicate we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Game

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

"Teams get fatigued when you knock on the door," 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 meet Argentina and we need to apply what we have gained.

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

"But it's so disheartening with that effort that we failed to achieve a win.

"It represents the nearest we've come to winning, I believe. We controlled the later stages, territory, pressure, ability. We've not achieved 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 Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the importance of a victory against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a response at the break," he said. "We could surrender or choose to fight back.

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it any easier."