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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but was deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at Murrayfield.

The hosts trailed seventeen to nil at the interval, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that second half showing was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a couple of big moments that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second half, we showed our true selves today and we likely showed our identity 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 performance show we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just must make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an absorbing contest.
• 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 visitors.

"Opponents get tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

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

"It marks the initial occasion this team has played together since the Six Nations. To get that unity immediately is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've come to victory, I believe. We controlled the second half, 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 next week and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the importance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a response at the break," he said. "Either we lie down or choose to fight back.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

"It is essential we recover for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."