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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced pride in Scotland's display against New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had three players placed in the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a historic win in this fixture.

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that second half showing 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 went New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we demonstrated who we are today and we probably revealed who we are 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.

"Elements of that game indicate we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just must make that following advance."

Crucial Events of the Match

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

"Teams get fatigued 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 put in what we have gained.

"This is the initial occasion this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to victory, I think. We dominated the second half, territory, pressure, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the experience.

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "bittersweet" and emphasized the importance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a reaction at the break," he said. "We could we lie down or decide to fight back.

"There was nothing to lose and everything to gain.

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