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"The win was there. We know victory was within reach."

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

The hosts were behind 17-0 at the half, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a historic win in this fixture.

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

"It was crucial to kick on 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 who we are today and we likely showed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

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

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

Crucial Events of the Game

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought 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 opponents.

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

"I would like to be facing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we must apply what we have gained.

"This is the first time this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that unity immediately is challenging and to see it develop during the game is positive.

"However it's so disheartening 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, skill. 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 "bittersweet" and emphasized the importance of a victory against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

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

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

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