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"The win was there. We are aware the win was there."

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

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

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, 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 effort that went into that second half showing 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 half, we showed who we are today and we likely showed who we are by not getting the win as well.

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

"Aspects of that performance show we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Scores 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 opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the visitors.

"Teams get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by narrow margins.

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

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

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to winning, I think. We controlled the second half, territory, pressure, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the encounter.

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Captain's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

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

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

"It is essential we recover for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."