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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in the Scottish performance versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland trailed 17-0 at the interval, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this match-up.

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the hard work that went into that latter period performance was all character," Townsend remarked.

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we showed 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 big moments when the game is there for us.

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

Crucial Events of the Game

• Scores 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 first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the opponents.

"Teams get fatigued when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

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

"This is the initial occasion this squad has been united since the Six Nations. To get that unity immediately is challenging and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

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

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

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a very big game next week and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we needed a response at half time," 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 recover for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."