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"The win was there. We know victory was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

Scotland were behind 17-0 at the interval, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had three players placed in the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a historic win in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the effort 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 key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we showed who we are today and we likely revealed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we must win those big moments when the game is there for us.

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

Key Moments of the Game

• 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 opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

"Teams get fatigued when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

"I would like to be playing New Zealand again soon. 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 difficult and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

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

"It represents the nearest we've come to winning, I think. 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.

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a reaction at half time," he said. "We could we lie down or decide to fight back.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

"It is essential we recover for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."