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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's display against New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

The hosts were behind seventeen to nil at the interval, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

"I feel let down primarily, because the effort 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 couple of key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second half, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably showed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

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

"Elements of that performance show we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Key Moments of the Match

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• 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 visitors.

"Opponents get fatigued 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 meet Argentina and we need to apply what we have gained.

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

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

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I believe. We controlled the second half, territory, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

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

Captain's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" and emphasized the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

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

"There was nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"It is essential we recover for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it any easier."