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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in the Scottish performance versus New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

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

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the hard work that went into that second half showing was all character," Townsend stated.

"We needed to kick on when it got to seventeen all and there were a few big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably revealed 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 match is there for us.

"Elements of that performance show we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the opponents.

"Opponents get tired 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 narrow margins.

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to put in what we have learned.

"It marks the first time this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.

"However it's so frustrating with that effort that we didn't get a win.

"It represents the nearest we've come to victory, I believe. We controlled the second half, territory, pressure, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "bittersweet" and emphasized the importance of a win against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

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

"There was nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."