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"Victory was there. We know victory was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind 17-0 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, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this fixture.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that latter period performance was pure determination," Townsend stated.

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a few big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

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

"There's growth in this team and we have to win those crucial points when the game is there for us.

"Aspects of that game show we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just must make that following advance."

Crucial Events of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an absorbing 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 lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

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

"This is the first time this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

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

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I think. We controlled the second half, territory, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the encounter.

"Our journey continues today. We have a very big game coming up and bigger games to come in the championship."

Captain's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss 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. "Either we lie down or decide to fight back.

"We had nothing to lose and all to play for.

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina will not make it simpler."