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

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

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

However, the New Zealand team, who had three players placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this match-up.

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that second half performance was all character," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a few big moments that went New Zealand's way.

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

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

"Elements of that performance show we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the opponents.

"Teams get fatigued when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

"I would like to be playing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we need to apply what we have gained.

"It marks the first time this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.

"However it's so frustrating with that effort that we didn't get a win.

"It represents the nearest we've come to winning, I think. We dominated the later stages, territory, intensity, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a very big game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a response at the break," he said. "We could surrender or choose to fight back.

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

"We have to bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."