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"The win could have been ours. We know the win was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance versus New Zealand but was deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at their home ground.

Scotland trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had three players sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this fixture.

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

"It was crucial to kick on when it got to seventeen all and there were a couple of big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we showed our true selves today and we likely showed who we are by not getting the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we must 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 following advance."

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 held up over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

"Opponents get fatigued 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 soon. We play Argentina and we must apply what we have gained.

"This is the initial occasion this squad has played together since the Six Nations. To get that unity immediately is challenging and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

"However it's so disheartening with that effort that we failed to achieve a win.

"It represents the nearest we've come to victory, I believe. We controlled the later stages, field position, intensity, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the encounter.

"The team's path continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

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

"There was no downside and all to play for.

"We have to bounce back for next week because Argentina will not make it any easier."