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"Victory was there. We know victory was there."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in the Scottish performance versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

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

However, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the effort that went into that second half showing was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

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

"Outstanding second period, we showed our true selves today and we likely revealed our identity by not getting the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we have to win those crucial points when the game is there for us.

"Elements of that performance show we are up there 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 hauled Scotland back into an absorbing battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the opponents.

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

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

"This is the first time this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that unity straight away is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've been to winning, I think. We dominated the second half, field position, intensity, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.

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

Skipper's Reaction

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a reaction at the break," he said. "We could we lie down or choose to fight back.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

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