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

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

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

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members placed in the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a historic win in this match-up.

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the hard work that went into that latter period showing was all character," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to kick on when it got to seventeen all and there were a couple of big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

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

"Progress is evident in this team and we must win those crucial points when the game is there for us.

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

Crucial Events of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an absorbing battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the first half 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 lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

"I would like to be playing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we need to put in what we have learned.

"It marks the first time this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that unity 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 been to victory, I think. We dominated the later stages, territory, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the experience.

"The team's path continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "bittersweet" and emphasized the importance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a reaction at half time," he said. "We could we lie down 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 simpler."