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"The win was there. We are aware the win was there."

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

The hosts trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a historic win in this match-up.

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the hard work that went into that latter period showing was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a few big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second half, we showed our true selves today and we likely 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.

"Elements of that game indicate we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Game

• Scores 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 opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the visitors.

"Teams get tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by narrow margins.

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

"It marks the initial occasion this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion straight away is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to winning, I think. We dominated the second half, field position, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the encounter.

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

Captain's Response

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

"I instructed the boys we needed a reaction at the break," he said. "Either surrender or choose to go for it.

"We had no downside and all to play for.

"It is essential we bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."