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"The win was there. We know the win was there."

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

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

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, who had three players sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that latter period performance was all character," Townsend remarked.

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

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

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

"Elements of that performance indicate we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping 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 tired when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by single digit margins.

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

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

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

"It's the closest we've been to victory, I think. We controlled 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 Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" and emphasized the importance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we required a reaction at half time," he said. "Either we lie down or choose to go for it.

"There was nothing to lose and everything to gain.

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