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"The win was there. We know the win was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at their home ground.

Scotland trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a historic win in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the effort that went into that latter period showing was pure determination," Townsend stated.

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

"Exceptional second period, we showed our true selves 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 crucial points 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 opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored 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 would like 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 Six Nations. To get that cohesion straight away 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 dominated the later stages, territory, intensity, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the encounter.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "bittersweet" and emphasized the importance of a victory against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a reaction at half time," he said. "We could we lie down or decide to fight back.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"We have to bounce back for next week because Argentina will not make it simpler."