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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced pride in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

Scotland trailed 17-0 at the half, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a historic win in this match-up.

"I feel let down first of all, because the hard work that went into that latter period performance was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a few big moments that went New Zealand's way.

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

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

"Elements of that game indicate we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

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

"Opponents get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

"I would like to be playing New Zealand again next week. We play Argentina and we must apply what we have learned.

"It marks the initial occasion this team has played together since the Six Nations. To get that unity immediately is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.

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

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

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and bigger games to come in the championship."

Captain's Reaction

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "bittersweet" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a response at half time," he said. "Either we lie down or decide to go for it.

"There was nothing to lose and all to play for.

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