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"The win could have been ours. We know victory was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but felt disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at their home ground.

The hosts were behind 17-0 at the half, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this fixture.

"I feel let down primarily, because the effort that went into that latter period 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 swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably revealed who we are by not getting the win as well.

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

"Aspects of that performance indicate we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just must make that following advance."

Crucial Events 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.

"Teams get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by single digit margins.

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

"It marks the initial occasion this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that unity straight away is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.

"However it's so frustrating with that performance that we failed to achieve a win.

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

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a reaction at the break," he said. "Either we lie down or choose to fight back.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

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