The Scottish Team Needs to Take the Next Step Following New Zealand Heartbreak - Townsend

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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced pride in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

The hosts trailed 17-0 at the interval, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this fixture.

"I feel let down first of all, because the effort that went into that second half showing was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a few big moments that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second half, we showed who we are today and we likely revealed our identity by not getting the win as well.

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

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

Crucial Events of the Game

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought 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.

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

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

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

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

"It represents the nearest we've been to victory, I believe. We dominated the second half, territory, pressure, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

"The team's path continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat 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 told the boys we needed a response at half time," he said. "Either we lie down or choose to go for it.

"We had no downside and all to play for.

"It is essential we recover for the upcoming match because Argentina will not make it simpler."