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"Victory was there. We are aware the win was there."

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in the Scottish performance against New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

Scotland were behind 17-0 at the interval, only to storm back and draw level 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 historic win in this match-up.

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

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a few big moments that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably revealed our identity 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.

"Elements of that game show we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

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

"Opponents get tired when you apply pressure," 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 need to put in what we have gained.

"It marks the initial occasion this team has been united since the tournament. To get that unity immediately is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

"However it's so disheartening with that effort that we failed to achieve a win.

"It's the closest we've been to winning, I believe. We dominated the later stages, territory, intensity, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the experience.

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

Skipper's Response

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the importance of a victory against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we needed a reaction at the break," he said. "Either surrender or choose to go for it.

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

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