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"Victory could have been ours. We are aware victory was there."

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

The hosts trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a historic win 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 stated.

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

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

"There's growth in this team and we must win those big moments 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 brought Scotland back into an absorbing 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.

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

"I would like to be playing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we must apply what we have gained.

"It marks the initial occasion this squad has played together since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've been to victory, I think. We controlled the later stages, territory, intensity, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the encounter.

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a response at the break," he said. "We could we lie down or decide to go for it.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

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