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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

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

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

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that second half performance was pure determination," Townsend stated.

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second half, we demonstrated our true selves today and we likely revealed 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 game indicate we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an absorbing contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the opponents.

"Opponents get tired when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by narrow margins.

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to put in what we have learned.

"This is the first time this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that unity immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

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

"It's the closest we've been to victory, I believe. We controlled the second half, territory, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the experience.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we required a response at half time," he said. "We could surrender or choose to go for it.

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

"We have to recover for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."