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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

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

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

"I feel let down primarily, because the effort that went into that latter period showing was all character," 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.

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

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

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

Key Moments of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an absorbing contest.
• 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.

"Opponents get fatigued when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by single digit margins.

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

"It marks the first time this squad has played together since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult 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 come to victory, I think. We dominated the second half, field position, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.

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

Captain's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we needed a response at half time," he said. "We could we lie down or decide to fight back.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."