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"The win could have been ours. We are aware the win was there."

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at Murrayfield.

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

However, the New Zealand team, who had three players sent to the penalty box, 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 latter period showing was pure determination," Townsend stated.

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a couple of big moments that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second half, we demonstrated our true selves today and we likely revealed who we are by failing to secure 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 indicate we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Game

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

"Opponents get tired when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost three 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 gained.

"This is the initial occasion this team has played together since the Six Nations. To get that unity straight away is difficult and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to victory, I believe. We dominated the later stages, field position, intensity, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Reaction

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "bittersweet" and stressed the importance of a win against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

"I told the boys we needed a reaction at the break," he said. "Either surrender or choose to go for it.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

"We have to bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."