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"Victory was there. We know the win was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but felt deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind seventeen to nil at the interval, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the effort that went into that latter period showing was all character," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a couple of key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second half, we showed our true selves today and we likely revealed our identity by failing to secure the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we have to win those big moments when the game is there for us.

"Elements of that performance show we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

Key Moments of the Match

• 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 first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the opponents.

"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 playing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to put in what we have gained.

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

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

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I think. We dominated the later stages, territory, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the experience.

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

Captain's Reaction

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the importance of a win against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

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

"There was no downside and all to play for.

"We have to bounce back for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."