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"The win was there. We are aware the win was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind 17-0 at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the hard work that went into that second half performance was pure determination," Townsend stated.

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

"Exceptional second period, we showed who we are today and we likely revealed who we are by not getting 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.

"Aspects of that performance show we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Key Moments of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping 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 opponents.

"Teams get tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

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

"It marks the initial occasion this team has played together since the Six Nations. To get that unity straight away is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.

"However it's so disheartening with that performance that we didn't get a win.

"It represents the nearest we've come to victory, I think. We dominated the second half, field position, pressure, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the encounter.

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

Captain's Response

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat 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 needed a reaction at the break," he said. "We could we lie down or choose to fight back.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

"We have to bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."