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

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but was deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at Murrayfield.

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

However, the All Blacks, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a historic win in this match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the effort that went into that second half showing was pure determination," Townsend stated.

"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.

"Outstanding second half, we showed our true selves today and we likely revealed our identity by failing to secure the win as well.

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

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

Crucial Events of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the first half 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 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 play Argentina and we need to put in what we have gained.

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

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

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I think. We dominated the second half, field position, 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 very big game coming up and bigger games to come in the championship."

Captain's Response

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "bittersweet" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a response at half time," he said. "We could surrender or decide to go for it.

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"We have to bounce back for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."