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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

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

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that latter period performance was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

"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.

"Outstanding second half, we demonstrated who we are 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 crucial points 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

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an absorbing battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the visitors.

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

"I would like to be facing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we must apply what we have learned.

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

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

"It's the closest we've come to victory, I think. We controlled the later stages, territory, intensity, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we required a response at the break," he said. "We could surrender or choose to fight back.

"We had no downside and all to play for.

"We have to recover for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it any easier."