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"The win was there. We are aware victory was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced pride in the Scottish display against New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

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

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members placed in the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a historic win in this match-up.

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the effort 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 few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

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

"There's growth in this team and we have to win those crucial points when the match is there for us.

"Aspects of that performance show we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Key Moments 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 notched points for the opponents.

"Teams get fatigued when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in 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 play Argentina and we need to put in what we have learned.

"This is the initial occasion this team has played together since the tournament. To get that unity straight away is challenging and to see it develop during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've come to victory, I believe. We controlled the later stages, field position, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a very big game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Captain's Reaction

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

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

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"We have to bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."