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

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

The hosts were behind seventeen to nil at the interval, 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 opportunity of a historic win in this match-up.

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

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we showed our true selves today and we likely showed who we are by not getting the win as well.

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

"Aspects of that performance show we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Match

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an absorbing contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the opponents.

"Teams get tired 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 next week. We play Argentina and we need to apply what we have learned.

"It marks 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.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to winning, I think. We dominated the later stages, field position, pressure, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the encounter.

"Our journey continues today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "mixed feelings" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a record score 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.

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"We have to bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."