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

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced pride in Scotland's display against New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

Scotland trailed 17-0 at the half, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, 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 match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that second half showing was all character," Townsend stated.

"We needed to kick on when it got to seventeen all and there were a couple of big moments that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second half, we showed our true selves today and we likely showed 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 game is there for us.

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

Key Moments of the Game

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

"Teams get fatigued when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by single digit margins.

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

"This is the first time this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging 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's the closest we've been to victory, I believe. We dominated the second half, field position, pressure, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the encounter.

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

Captain's Reaction

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

"I told the boys we required a response at half time," he said. "We could we lie down or choose to go for it.

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

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