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"Victory could have been ours. We are aware victory was there."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's display against New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

The hosts were behind 17-0 at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had three players sent to the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a first victory in this match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that second half performance was pure determination," Townsend stated.

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

"Exceptional second half, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably revealed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

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

"Elements of that performance indicate we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an absorbing battle.
• 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 visitors.

"Opponents 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 narrow margins.

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

"It marks the first time this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion straight away is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to victory, I believe. We controlled the second half, territory, pressure, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

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

Captain's Response

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

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

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it simpler."