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

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind seventeen to nil at the interval, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

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

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

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

"There's growth in this team and we must win those crucial points when the match is there for us.

"Aspects of that performance show we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an absorbing battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the opponents.

"Teams 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 would like to be playing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to apply what we have learned.

"This is the first time this squad 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 didn't get a win.

"It represents the nearest we've been to victory, I believe. We dominated the second half, field position, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the experience.

"The team's path continues today. We have a very big game next week and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "bittersweet" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a reaction at the break," he said. "We could surrender or choose to go for it.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

"We have to recover for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it simpler."