The Scottish Team Must Make the Next Step Following New Zealand Defeat - Townsend

"Victory could have been ours. We are aware the win was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced pride in the Scottish performance against New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

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

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny 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 second half performance was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

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

"Exceptional second period, we demonstrated who we are today and we probably 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 match is there for us.

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

Key Moments of the Game

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

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

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we need to apply what we have gained.

"This is the first time this squad has played together since the Six Nations. To get that unity straight away is challenging and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

"But it's so frustrating with that performance that we failed to achieve a win.

"It's the closest we've been to winning, I think. We controlled the later stages, territory, intensity, 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 crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Captain's Response

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the importance of a win against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

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

"There was nothing to lose and all to play for.

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