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"The win was there. We are aware the win was there."

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

The hosts were behind 17-0 at the interval, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in 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 hard work that went into that second half showing was all character," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably revealed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we have to win those big moments when the game is there for us.

"Elements of that performance indicate we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Crucial Events of the Game

• Scores 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 opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the opponents.

"Opponents get tired when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

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

"It marks the initial occasion this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is challenging and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

"But 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 controlled the later stages, field position, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.

"The team's path continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "mixed feelings" and stressed the significance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a response at the break," he said. "We could surrender or decide to fight back.

"We had nothing to lose and all to play for.

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