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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced pride in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

Scotland trailed 17-0 at the half, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members placed in the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this match-up.

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

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

"Outstanding second half, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably revealed our identity 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 up there with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

"Teams get tired when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

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

"It marks the initial occasion this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging and to see it develop 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 been to winning, I think. We controlled the second half, field position, pressure, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

"Our journey continues today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

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

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

"We have to bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it simpler."