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

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at their home ground.

The hosts trailed 17-0 at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, who had three players placed in the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a historic win in this match-up.

"I'm really disappointed 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 17-17 and there were a few big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

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

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

"Elements of that game show we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just must make that next step."

Key Moments of the Game

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an absorbing battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

"Opponents get fatigued 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'd love to be facing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we must put in what we have learned.

"This is the initial occasion this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to victory, I think. We controlled the later stages, territory, pressure, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and more important games to come in the championship."

Captain's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "bittersweet" and emphasized the significance 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 we lie down or choose to go for it.

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"We have to bounce back for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."