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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in the Scottish performance against New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland trailed 17-0 at the interval, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

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

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

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a couple of big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

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

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

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

Crucial Events of the Match

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

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

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

"This is the first time this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that unity immediately is challenging and to see it develop during the game is positive.

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to winning, I think. We controlled the later stages, field position, intensity, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed 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 required a reaction at half time," he said. "Either surrender or decide to go for it.

"We had nothing to lose and all to play for.

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