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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

Scotland trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a historic win in this fixture.

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that latter period 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.

"Exceptional second half, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably revealed our identity by not getting the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we have to win those big moments when the match is there for us.

"Aspects of that game show we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped 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 been defeated in three home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by narrow margins.

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

"It marks the first time this team has been united since the tournament. To get that unity straight away is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to victory, I think. We dominated the second half, territory, intensity, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the experience.

"The team's path continues today. We have a very big game next week and more important games to come in the championship."

Captain's Reaction

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the importance of a win against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a response at half time," he said. "We could we lie down or decide to go for it.

"We had no downside and all to play for.

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