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"The win could have been ours. We are aware victory was there."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced pride in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind 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 sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a historic win in this match-up.

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

"It was crucial 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 showed who we are today and we probably revealed who we are by not getting the win as well.

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

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

Crucial Events of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an absorbing contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the opponents.

"Teams get fatigued when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

"I'd love to be facing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we need to apply what we have gained.

"This is the first time this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

"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 controlled the later stages, field position, pressure, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

"The team's path continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and bigger games to come in the championship."

Captain's Response

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

"I instructed the boys we needed a reaction at half time," he said. "We could we lie down or choose to fight back.

"We had no downside and all to play for.

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