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"The win could have been ours. We know the win was there."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in the Scottish performance against New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind 17-0 at the half, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a historic win in this match-up.

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the hard work that went into that latter period showing was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a few big moments that went New Zealand's way.

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

"Progress is evident 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 up there with the top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

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.

"Teams 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 single digit margins.

"I'd love to be facing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we need to put in what we have learned.

"It marks the first time this squad has played together since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've been to victory, I think. We controlled the second half, field position, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the experience.

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled 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 half time," he said. "We could we lie down or decide to fight back.

"We had no downside and all to play for.

"It is essential we recover for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."