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

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced pride in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at their home ground.

The hosts trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had three players placed in the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

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

"We needed to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a few big moments that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second half, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably showed our identity by not getting the win as well.

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

"Elements of that game indicate we are up there with the best teams 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 held up over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the opponents.

"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 head coach - all by narrow margins.

"I'd love to be facing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we must put in what we have learned.

"This is the first time this squad has played together since the tournament. To get that unity immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've come to victory, I think. We controlled the second half, territory, pressure, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the encounter.

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a very big game next week and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we required a reaction at the break," he said. "We could we lie down or decide to go for it.

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

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