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"Victory was there. We know victory was there."

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

The hosts trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the effort that went into that second half showing was pure determination," Townsend stated.

"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 showed our true selves today and we likely showed our identity by failing to secure 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.

"Aspects of that performance show we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping 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 opponents.

"Opponents get tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by single digit margins.

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

"It marks the first time this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've come to winning, I believe. We controlled the second half, field position, intensity, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

"The team's path 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 labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we required a response at the break," he said. "Either surrender or decide to go for it.

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"We have to recover for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."