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"The win was there. We are aware victory was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but felt deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at Murrayfield.

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

However, the New Zealand team, who had three players sent to the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this match-up.

"I feel let down first of all, because the hard work that went into that second half performance was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to kick on when it got to seventeen all and there were a few key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we demonstrated who we are today and we probably revealed 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 game is there for us.

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

Crucial Events of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an absorbing battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

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

"I'd love to be playing 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 Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.

"But it's so disheartening with that performance that we didn't get a win.

"It's the closest we've been to winning, I think. We dominated the later stages, territory, pressure, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the encounter.

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

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed the importance of a victory against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we required a response at half time," he said. "We could we lie down or choose to fight back.

"There was nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"It is essential we recover for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."