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

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced pride in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

Scotland were behind seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had three players sent to the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a historic win in this match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the effort that went into that latter period performance was pure determination," Townsend stated.

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

"Exceptional second half, we showed who we are today and we likely showed our identity 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 show we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Match

• 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 first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the opponents.

"Teams get tired when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

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

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

"However it's so frustrating with that effort that we didn't get a win.

"It represents the nearest we've come to winning, I think. We dominated the second half, field position, intensity, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Reaction

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "bittersweet" and emphasized the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we required a reaction at the break," he said. "Either surrender or decide to go for it.

"There was nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"It is essential we recover for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."