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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but was disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at their home ground.

The hosts trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had three players placed in the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this fixture.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that second half showing was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

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

"Exceptional second half, we showed who we are 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.

"Elements of that performance indicate we are up there 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 brought 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 opponents.

"Teams get fatigued when you apply pressure," 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 play Argentina and we must put in what we have gained.

"It marks the initial occasion this squad has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've been to victory, I think. We dominated the later stages, field position, intensity, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.

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

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and stressed the importance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a response at the break," he said. "Either surrender or decide to go for it.

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

"We have to bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it any easier."