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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but felt deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at Murrayfield.

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

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a historic win in this match-up.

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the effort that went into that latter period showing was pure determination," Townsend stated.

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

"Outstanding second period, we showed our true selves today and we likely showed who we are by not getting the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we must win those big moments when the match is there for us.

"Aspects of that game indicate we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the first half 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 lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

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

"This is the first time this squad has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

"However 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 dominated the second half, territory, intensity, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we required a response at the break," he said. "We could surrender or choose to fight back.

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."