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"The win was there. We know victory was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

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

However, the New Zealand team, who had three players placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this fixture.

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

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a couple of key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second half, we demonstrated who we are today and we probably showed 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.

"Aspects of that performance show we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just must make that following advance."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up 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 been defeated in three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

"I'd love to be facing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to put in what we have gained.

"This is the first time this squad has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.

"However it's so disheartening with that effort that we failed to achieve a win.

"It represents the nearest we've come to victory, I think. We controlled the second half, territory, pressure, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

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

"I told the boys we needed a response at the break," he said. "We could surrender or choose to go for it.

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"We have to bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it any easier."