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"The win could have been ours. We know victory was there."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

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 placed in the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this fixture.

"I feel let down primarily, because the effort that went into that second half showing was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

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

"Outstanding second period, we showed who we are today and we likely revealed who we are 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 performance show we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Game

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

"Opponents get tired 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 facing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we must put in what we have gained.

"It marks the initial occasion this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that unity immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

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

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

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game coming up and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Reaction

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the importance of a victory against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we required a response at the break," he said. "Either surrender or choose to go for it.

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

"We have to recover for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."