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"Victory was there. We know victory was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced pride in Scotland's display against New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

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

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this match-up.

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

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

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

"Progress is evident in this team and we must win those big moments when the match is there for us.

"Elements of that game indicate we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an absorbing battle.
• 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 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 single digit margins.

"I would like to be facing New Zealand again next week. We play Argentina and we need to apply what we have learned.

"This is the initial occasion this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.

"However it's so frustrating with that performance that we failed to achieve a win.

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I think. We dominated the second half, field position, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a very big game next week and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

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

"There was nothing to lose and all to play for.

"We have to bounce back for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."