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"Victory was there. We are aware the win was there."

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

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

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, 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 match-up.

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that latter period performance was all character," Townsend remarked.

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional 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 have to win those big moments when the match is there for us.

"Aspects of that game show we are up there with the best teams 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 gripping battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

"Teams get tired 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 would like to be facing New Zealand again next week. We play Argentina and we must put in what we have learned.

"This is the first time this team has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've been to victory, I think. We controlled the second half, field position, pressure, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the encounter.

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

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

"I told the boys we needed a response at the break," he said. "We could we lie down or choose to go for it.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."