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

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but felt disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at Murrayfield.

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

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, who had three players placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this match-up.

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the hard work that went into that latter period showing was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a few big moments that went New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably revealed our identity by failing to secure the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we must win those crucial points 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."

Crucial Events of the Game

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

"Opponents get tired when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

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

"It marks the first time this squad has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've been to winning, I believe. We controlled the later stages, territory, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

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

Skipper's Reaction

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

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

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."