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

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced pride in the Scottish performance versus New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

The hosts were behind seventeen to nil at the interval, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had three players sent to the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this match-up.

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the effort that went into that second half performance was all character," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to kick on when it got to seventeen all 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 showed our identity by not getting 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 hauled Scotland back into an absorbing battle.
• 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 opponents.

"Teams get tired when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - 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 initial occasion this team has played together since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

"But it's so frustrating with that effort that we didn't get a win.

"It's the closest we've been to winning, I believe. We controlled the second half, territory, intensity, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the encounter.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a very big game next week and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "mixed feelings" 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 reaction at half time," he said. "Either we lie down or choose to fight back.

"We had no downside and all to play for.

"It is essential we recover for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."