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"The win could have been ours. We are aware victory was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's display against New Zealand but felt deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at their home ground.

The hosts were behind seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the effort that went into that latter period showing was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

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

"Exceptional second half, we showed who we are today and we probably showed our identity by not getting the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we have to win those crucial points when the match is there for us.

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

Key Moments of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the first half 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 head coach - 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 played together since the Six Nations. To get that unity immediately is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've come to winning, I think. We dominated the later stages, field position, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the encounter.

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

Captain's Reaction

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

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

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

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