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"Victory could have been ours. We know victory was there."

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but felt deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at their home ground.

Scotland trailed seventeen to nil at the half, 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 deny Scotland the chance of a first victory in this match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the effort that went into that latter period performance was all character," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to kick on when it got to seventeen all and there were a few big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second half, we demonstrated 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 must win those big moments when the game is there for us.

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

Key Moments of the Match

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

"Opponents get fatigued 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 would like to be facing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we must apply what we have learned.

"It marks the first time this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

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

"The team's path continues today. We have a very big game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Captain's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed 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 required a response at the break," he said. "Either we lie down or choose to go for it.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

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