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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind 17-0 at the interval, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had three players sent to the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the effort that went into that second half performance was pure determination," Townsend stated.

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

"Outstanding second half, we showed our true selves today and we probably 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.

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

Crucial Events of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

"Teams get fatigued when you apply pressure," 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 playing New Zealand again next week. We play Argentina and we must put in what we have learned.

"This is the initial occasion this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

"But it's so frustrating with that effort that we didn't get a win.

"It's the closest we've come to victory, I believe. We dominated the second half, field position, intensity, skill. 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 very big game coming up and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and stressed the importance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a response at half time," he said. "Either surrender or decide to fight back.

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

"We have to bounce back for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."