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"The win was there. We know the win was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but was deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at their home ground.

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

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, 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.

"We needed to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a few big moments that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we demonstrated who we are today and we likely showed our identity by failing to secure the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we have to win those big moments when the match is there for us.

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

Key Moments of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

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

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we must put in what we have gained.

"This is the initial occasion this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

"But it's so disheartening with that effort that we didn't get a win.

"It's the closest we've been to victory, I think. We controlled the later stages, territory, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the encounter.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Reaction

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the importance of a win against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we required a reaction at half time," he said. "We could surrender or choose to go for it.

"We had no downside and all to play for.

"We have to bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it simpler."