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

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but was deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at their home ground.

Scotland were behind 17-0 at the interval, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a historic win in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the hard work that went into that latter period performance was all character," Townsend stated.

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

"Outstanding 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 must win those big moments when the game is there for us.

"Aspects of that performance show we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Game

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an absorbing battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

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

"I'd love to be facing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we must put in what we have gained.

"It marks the first time 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 effort that we didn't get a win.

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

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

Captain's Reaction

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed the importance of a win 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 go for it.

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

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