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"Victory could have been ours. We are aware the win was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's display against New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind seventeen to nil at the interval, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that latter period showing was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

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

"Exceptional second half, we demonstrated who we are today and we probably revealed our identity by failing to secure the win as well.

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

"Aspects of that performance indicate we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Game

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the opponents.

"Opponents get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by narrow margins.

"I'd love to be facing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to apply what we have gained.

"It marks the initial occasion this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've been to victory, I think. We dominated the second half, field position, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a reaction at the break," he said. "We could we lie down or choose to go for it.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

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