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"The win could have been ours. We know victory was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

The hosts were behind 17-0 at the half, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

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

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that latter period performance was all character," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a couple of key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we showed who we are today and we probably revealed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

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

"Aspects of that performance show we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Scores 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 opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the opponents.

"Teams get tired when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by single digit margins.

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again next week. We play Argentina and we need to apply what we have learned.

"It marks the initial occasion this team has played together since the Six Nations. To get that unity straight away is difficult and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

"However it's so disheartening with that performance that we didn't get a win.

"It represents the nearest we've been to victory, I believe. We controlled the later stages, field position, pressure, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the encounter.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Captain's Reaction

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a response at half time," he said. "We could we lie down or choose to fight back.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina will not make it any easier."