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"Victory was there. We are aware victory was there."

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

Scotland trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

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

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a couple of big moments that went New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we showed who we are today and we likely revealed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we must win those big moments when the game is there for us.

"Aspects of that performance indicate we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Crucial Events of the Game

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

"Opponents get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

"I would like to be playing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we must put in what we have gained.

"This is the initial occasion this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.

"But it's so disheartening with that effort that we didn't get a win.

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I believe. We controlled the second half, field position, intensity, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the encounter.

"The team's path continues today. We have a crucial game next week and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

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

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."