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

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced pride in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had three players sent to the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that latter period showing was all character," Townsend stated.

"We needed to kick on when it got to seventeen all and there were a couple of key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we demonstrated our true selves today and we likely revealed who we are by not getting the win as well.

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

"Aspects of that performance show we are competitive 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 absorbing 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 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 manager - all by narrow margins.

"I'd love to be facing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to apply what we have gained.

"This is the initial occasion this squad has played together since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.

"But it's so frustrating with that performance that we didn't get a win.

"It represents the nearest we've been to victory, I think. We dominated the later stages, territory, intensity, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "mixed feelings" and stressed 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 required a response at the break," he said. "We could we lie down or choose to go for it.

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina will not make it any easier."