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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

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

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that second half showing was all character," Townsend stated.

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to seventeen all 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 likely revealed who we are by not getting the win as well.

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

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

Crucial Events of the Match

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• 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 fatigued when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

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

"This is the first time this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that unity straight away is challenging and to see it develop during the game is positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've come to winning, I believe. We controlled the second half, territory, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the encounter.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Reaction

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed the importance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we needed a reaction at the break," he said. "We could we lie down or decide to go for it.

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it any easier."