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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's display against New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

The hosts trailed seventeen to nil at the interval, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this match-up.

"I feel let down first of all, because the hard work that went into that second half showing was all character," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to push forward when it got to 17-17 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.

"Elements of that performance indicate we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just must make that next step."

Key Moments of the Match

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought 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 notched points for the visitors.

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

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

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

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to winning, I think. We dominated the second half, territory, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the encounter.

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and stressed the importance of a win against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

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

"There was no downside and all to play for.

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