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

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced pride in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

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

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that second half showing was pure determination," Townsend stated.

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

"Exceptional second period, we demonstrated who we are today and we probably showed our identity by not getting the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we have to win those crucial points when the match is there for us.

"Aspects of that game indicate we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Key Moments 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 opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

"Teams get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in three home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - 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.

"This is 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 positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've come to winning, I think. We controlled the second half, territory, pressure, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the encounter.

"Our journey continues today. We have a very big game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Response

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

"I told the boys we required a reaction at half time," he said. "We could surrender or decide to fight back.

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"We have to recover for next week because Argentina will not make it any easier."