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

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but was deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at their home ground.

Scotland were behind 17-0 at the half, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that second half performance was all character," Townsend stated.

"It was crucial 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 half, we demonstrated our true selves today and we likely revealed who we are 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 performance indicate we are competitive 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 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 scored for the opponents.

"Teams get tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - 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 gained.

"It marks the first time this team has played together since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult 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, territory, pressure, skill. 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 very big game coming up and bigger games to come in the championship."

Captain's Response

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" and emphasized the importance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a response at the break," he said. "Either surrender or choose to fight back.

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

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