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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in the Scottish display against New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

Scotland trailed 17-0 at the interval, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a historic win in this fixture.

"I feel let down primarily, because the effort that went into that latter period performance was pure determination," 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 showed who we are today and we likely revealed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

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

"Elements of that game show we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Key Moments of the Game

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled 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.

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

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

"This is the first time this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that unity immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

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

"It's the closest we've been 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 better for the encounter.

"The team's path continues today. We have a very big game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Response

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and stressed the importance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we needed a reaction at the break," he said. "Either surrender or decide to fight back.

"We had nothing to lose and all to play for.

"We have to recover for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it any easier."