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"The win could have been ours. We are aware victory was there."

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

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

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the effort that went into that second half performance was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we showed our true selves today and we probably revealed who we are by failing to secure 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 game indicate we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought 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 scored for the opponents.

"Opponents get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost multiple 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 must put in what we have learned.

"This is the initial occasion this team has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to victory, I believe. We dominated the second half, territory, intensity, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

"I told the boys we needed a response at the break," he said. "We could surrender or decide to fight back.

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina will not make it any easier."