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"The win was there. We know victory was within reach."

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

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

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

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that latter period performance was all character," Townsend stated.

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

"Exceptional second period, we showed our true selves today and we likely revealed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we have to win those crucial points when the match 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."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Scores 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 knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

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

"This is the initial occasion this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion straight away is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've been to winning, I believe. We dominated the second half, territory, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

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

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a reaction at half time," he said. "We could surrender or choose to fight back.

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

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