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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced pride in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

Scotland trailed 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 match-up.

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

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

"Outstanding second half, we showed our true selves today and we likely showed our identity by not getting the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we must win those big moments when the match is there for us.

"Elements of that game show we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just must make that next step."

Key Moments of the Game

• Scores 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.

"Opponents get tired when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by narrow margins.

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

"This is the initial occasion this team has played together since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging 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 winning, I believe. We dominated the later stages, field position, pressure, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the experience.

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a very big game next week and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

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

"I told the boys we required a response at the break," he said. "We could surrender or decide to fight back.

"There was nothing to lose and all to play for.

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina will not make it simpler."