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"Victory could have been ours. We know the win was there."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced pride in the Scottish performance versus New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

The hosts were behind seventeen to nil at the half, only to fight 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 deny Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that second half showing was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

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

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

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

"Aspects of that performance show 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 hauled Scotland back into an absorbing 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 opponents.

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

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again next week. We play Argentina and we must apply what we have learned.

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

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

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I think. We dominated the later stages, territory, intensity, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the encounter.

"The team's path continues today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "bittersweet" and emphasized 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 required a reaction at half time," he said. "We could we lie down or choose to go for it.

"There was nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"It is essential we recover for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."