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"The win was there. We are aware the win was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind seventeen to nil 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 penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this fixture.

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

"It was crucial to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

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

"Progress is evident in this team and we must win those crucial points when the game 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."

Crucial Events of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping 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.

"Teams get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by narrow margins.

"I would like to be playing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to put in what we have gained.

"This is the first time this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is challenging and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

"But it's so disheartening with that effort that we failed to achieve a win.

"It's the closest we've come to victory, I believe. We controlled the second half, field position, intensity, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

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

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

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

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