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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

The hosts trailed 17-0 at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, who had three players placed in the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this match-up.

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

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

"Outstanding second half, we showed who we are today and we probably revealed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we must win those crucial points when the match is there for us.

"Elements of that game show we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Key Moments of the Game

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping contest.
• 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 tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

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

"This is the first time this team has played together since the tournament. To get that unity immediately is challenging and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

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

"It's the closest we've been to victory, I think. We controlled the later stages, territory, intensity, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

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

Captain's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a win against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

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

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

"We have to recover for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."