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"The win could have been ours. We are aware victory was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

The hosts trailed 17-0 at the half, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, who had three players sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this match-up.

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

"We needed to kick on when it got to seventeen all and there were a few key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably showed our identity by failing to secure the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we must win those crucial points when the match is there for us.

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

Key Moments of the Match

• Tries 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 opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the opponents.

"Opponents get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

"I'd love to be facing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we must apply what we have gained.

"This is the initial occasion this squad has been united since the Six Nations. To get that unity 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's the closest we've come to victory, I think. We dominated the later stages, territory, pressure, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the experience.

"The team's path continues today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Response

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "bittersweet" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a reaction at half time," he said. "We could surrender or decide to fight back.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

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