The Scottish Team Must Make the Following Move After All Blacks Defeat - Townsend

"Victory could have been ours. We know victory was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced pride in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

The hosts were behind 17-0 at the interval, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had three players placed in the sin bin, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

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

"It was crucial to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that went New Zealand's way.

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

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

"Elements of that performance indicate we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just must make that following advance."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Tries 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 opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the opponents.

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

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

"This is the first time this squad has played together since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

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

"It represents the nearest we've come to victory, I believe. We dominated the second half, field position, pressure, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a very big game coming up and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed the importance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we needed a response at half time," he said. "Either surrender or choose to fight back.

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

"We have to recover for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."