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"The win was there. We know victory was there."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in the Scottish performance versus New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland trailed 17-0 at the interval, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this fixture.

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that latter period performance was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a few big moments that went New Zealand's way.

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

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

"Aspects of that game show we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Match

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

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

"I would like to be facing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we need to put in what we have learned.

"This is the first time this squad has played together since the Six Nations. To get that unity straight away is challenging and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

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

"It's the closest we've been 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 improved for the experience.

"The team's path continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and more important games to come in the championship."

Captain's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance 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 reaction at half time," he said. "We could surrender or choose to fight back.

"We had nothing to lose and all to play for.

"We have to recover for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."