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"Victory could have been ours. We know the win was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but felt disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at their home ground.

The hosts trailed 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 sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that latter period showing was pure determination," Townsend stated.

"We needed to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably revealed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we must win those big moments when the match is there for us.

"Aspects of that performance indicate we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Crucial Events of the Game

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

"Opponents get tired when you knock on the door," 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 soon. We meet Argentina and we must put in what we have gained.

"It marks the first time this squad has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it develop 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 winning, I believe. We dominated the second half, territory, intensity, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed the importance of a win against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we needed a reaction at half time," he said. "We could surrender or choose to go for it.

"There was nothing to lose and everything to gain.

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