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"Victory was there. We are aware victory was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's display against New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

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

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had three players sent to the sin bin, scored 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 latter period performance was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

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

"Outstanding second half, we showed our true selves today and we likely showed our identity by not getting the win as well.

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

"Aspects of that game show we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• 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 manager - all by narrow margins.

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

"It marks the first time this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.

"However it's so frustrating with that performance that we didn't get a win.

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I think. We controlled the later stages, territory, intensity, skill. We've not achieved 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 more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Reaction

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

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

"We had nothing to lose and all to play for.

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