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"The win could have been ours. We know the win was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

The hosts trailed 17-0 at the half, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

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

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

"It was crucial to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a couple of key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second half, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably showed our identity by failing to secure the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we have to win those big moments when the game is there for us.

"Aspects of that game show we are up there 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 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.

"Opponents get tired when you apply pressure," 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 facing New Zealand again next week. We play Argentina and we must apply what we have learned.

"This is the initial occasion this team has played together since the Six Nations. To get that unity straight away is difficult and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

"However it's so frustrating with that effort that we failed to achieve a win.

"It represents the nearest we've been to winning, I believe. We controlled the second half, territory, pressure, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a very big game coming up and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Reaction

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

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

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we recover for next week because Argentina will not make it simpler."