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"Victory was there. We are aware the win was there."

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in the Scottish performance against New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

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

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members sent to the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this match-up.

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that latter period performance was all character," Townsend stated.

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a couple of key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second half, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably revealed our identity by not getting the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we must 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 must make that next step."

Key Moments of the Game

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an absorbing contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the visitors.

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

"I would like to be playing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to apply what we have learned.

"It marks the first time this squad has played together since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

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

"It represents the nearest we've come to winning, I believe. We controlled the second half, territory, pressure, 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 crucial game coming up and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Response

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the importance of a win against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a response at the break," he said. "Either surrender or choose to go for it.

"There was nothing to lose and all to play for.

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