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"Victory was there. We know the win was within reach."

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

Scotland were behind seventeen to nil at the interval, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this match-up.

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the effort that went into that second half showing was all character," Townsend remarked.

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

"Outstanding second half, we showed who we are today and we likely showed 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.

"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

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an absorbing contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

"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 single digit margins.

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

"This is the initial occasion this team has played together since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to victory, I believe. We controlled the second half, field position, intensity, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the encounter.

"The team's path continues today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed the importance of a win against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we required a reaction at the break," he said. "We could surrender or choose to go for it.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"We have to recover for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it any easier."