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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in the Scottish performance versus New Zealand but felt disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at their home ground.

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

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this match-up.

"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 push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a couple of big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second half, we demonstrated who we are today and we probably revealed our identity by not getting the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we must win those crucial points when the match is there for us.

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

Key Moments of the Match

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the visitors.

"Opponents get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by single digit margins.

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we must apply what we have learned.

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

"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 second half, territory, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a response at the break," he said. "Either we lie down or choose to fight back.

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

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