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

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

The hosts trailed 17-0 at the interval, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this fixture.

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

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a few big moments that went New Zealand's way.

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

"Progress is evident in this team and we must win those crucial points when the match is there for us.

"Elements of that game indicate we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just must make that following advance."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Tries 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 opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the opponents.

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

"I'd love to be facing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we must put in what we have gained.

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

"However it's so disheartening with that performance that we failed to achieve a win.

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

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

Captain's Response

Scotland captain 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 instructed the boys we required a reaction at half time," he said. "Either surrender or decide to fight back.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

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