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

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

Scotland trailed 17-0 at the half, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this match-up.

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

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a few key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we demonstrated who we are today and we probably showed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we must win those big moments when the game is there for us.

"Elements of that performance show we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Scores 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 notched points for the visitors.

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

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we must put in what we have learned.

"It marks the initial occasion this squad has played together since the Six Nations. To get that unity straight away is difficult and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

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

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

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game coming up and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed the importance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

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

"There was nothing to lose and all to play for.

"It is essential we bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it simpler."