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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in the Scottish performance against New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

The hosts trailed 17-0 at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the effort that went into that second half performance was all character," Townsend stated.

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

"Exceptional second half, we showed who we are today and we probably revealed our identity by not getting the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we must win those big moments when the match is there for us.

"Elements of that game show we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an absorbing contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the visitors.

"Teams get fatigued when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we must apply what we have gained.

"It marks the initial occasion 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.

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

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

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a very big game next week and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed the importance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a reaction at the break," he said. "We could we lie down or decide to fight back.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

"We have to recover for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."