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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but was disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at Murrayfield.

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

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

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

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

"Outstanding second period, we showed who we are today and we probably revealed who we are by not getting the win as well.

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

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

Crucial Events of the Game

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an absorbing battle.
• 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.

"Teams get tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by narrow margins.

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

"This is the first time this squad has played together since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

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

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

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game coming up and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

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

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

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

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina will not make it any easier."