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

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland were behind 17-0 at the interval, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had three players placed in the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a historic win in this fixture.

"I'm really disappointed primarily, because the hard work that went into that latter period showing was all character," Townsend stated.

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

"Outstanding second period, we showed our true selves today and we likely revealed 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.

"Elements of that performance show we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Key Moments of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled 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 knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to put in what we have learned.

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

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to victory, 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 doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a win against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

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

"We had no downside and all to play for.

"We have to bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."