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"Victory was there. We are aware the win was there."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in the Scottish display against New Zealand but felt deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at their home ground.

Scotland trailed 17-0 at the interval, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

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

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the effort that went into that latter period showing was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

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

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

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

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

Key Moments of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an absorbing 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 knock on the door," 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 facing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we must apply what we have learned.

"This is the first time this team has played together since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

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

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I believe. We dominated the second half, field position, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game coming up and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

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

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

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

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