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"The win was there. We know victory was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in the Scottish performance versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

The hosts were behind 17-0 at the interval, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

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

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the hard work that went into that second half showing was pure determination," Townsend stated.

"We needed to kick on when it got to seventeen all and there were a couple of big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we demonstrated who we are today and we likely revealed our identity by not getting the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we have to win those big moments when the match is there for us.

"Elements of that game show we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored 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'd love to be playing New Zealand again next week. We play Argentina and we must apply what we have gained.

"It marks the first time this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that unity immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.

"But it's so disheartening with that effort that we failed to achieve a win.

"It represents the nearest we've been to winning, I think. We controlled the later stages, field position, pressure, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the encounter.

"The team's path continues today. We have a very big game next week and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "bittersweet" 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 needed a response at the break," he said. "We could surrender or choose to go for it.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

"It is essential we recover for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."