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"Victory could have been ours. We are aware victory was there."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

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

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

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the hard work that went into that latter period performance was all character," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we showed our true selves today and we likely showed our identity by failing to secure 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 indicate we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just must make that following advance."

Crucial Events of the Game

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an absorbing contest.
• 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 visitors.

"Opponents get tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in 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 meet Argentina and we must put in what we have learned.

"It marks the first time this team has been united since the tournament. To get that unity immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

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

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

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

Captain's Response

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat 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 instructed the boys we needed a response at half time," he said. "We could surrender or decide to fight back.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

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