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"Victory could have been ours. We are aware the win was there."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced pride in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but was deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at Murrayfield.

The hosts were behind 17-0 at the half, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny 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 remarked.

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

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

"Progress is evident in this team and we have to win those big moments when the game is there for us.

"Aspects of that performance indicate we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

Key Moments of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping 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.

"Opponents get tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost three 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 gained.

"It marks the first time this team has played together since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to winning, I think. We controlled the second half, territory, intensity, ability. We've not achieved 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 next week and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a victory 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. "We could we lie down or choose to fight back.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"We have to recover for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."