🔗 Share this article

"Victory was there. We know victory was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced pride in the Scottish performance against New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

The hosts were behind seventeen to nil at the half, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the sin bin, struck 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 second half performance was all character," Townsend stated.

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a couple of big moments that swung New Zealand's way.

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

"Progress is evident in this team and we have to win those crucial points when the game is there for us.

"Aspects of that performance indicate we are competitive 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 opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

"Teams get tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

"I would like 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 played together since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

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

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

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Reaction

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed the importance of a win against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a response at the break," he said. "We could we lie down 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."