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"The win was there. We know the win was there."

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's display against New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

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

However, the All Blacks, who had multiple members sent to the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this fixture.

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

"It was crucial to kick on when it got to seventeen all and there were a couple of key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second half, we demonstrated who we are today and we likely showed our identity by not getting the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we have to win those crucial points when the game is there for us.

"Aspects of that game show we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Key Moments of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the opponents.

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

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

"This is the first time this squad has played together since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion straight away is challenging and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

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

"It's the closest we've been to winning, I think. We controlled the later stages, field position, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.

"The team's path continues today. We have a very big game coming up and bigger games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Response

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a win against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a response at half time," he said. "Either we lie down or decide to fight back.

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."