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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced pride in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

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

However, the All Blacks, who had multiple members sent to the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the effort that went into that latter period performance was pure determination," Townsend stated.

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

"Outstanding second period, we showed who we are today and we likely showed 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 top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

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

"Opponents get fatigued when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by single digit margins.

"I would like to be facing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we need to apply what we have gained.

"It marks the first time this team has played together since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to winning, I think. We controlled the second half, territory, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the encounter.

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

Captain's Reaction

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" and emphasized 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 needed a reaction at the break," he said. "We could we lie down or decide to fight back.

"We had no downside and all to play for.

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