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

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in the Scottish display against New Zealand but felt disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at Murrayfield.

The hosts trailed seventeen to nil at the interval, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this match-up.

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

"We needed to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a couple of big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second half, we demonstrated 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 have to 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 hauled Scotland back into an absorbing contest.
• 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 tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

"I would like to be playing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we must put in what we have learned.

"This is the first time this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that unity straight away is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to victory, I believe. We controlled the later stages, territory, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

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

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed the importance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

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

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"We have to bounce back for next week because Argentina will not make it simpler."