Scotland Needs to Make the Next Step Following All Blacks Defeat - Townsend

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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

The hosts were behind 17-0 at the half, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had three players sent to the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that latter period showing was all character," Townsend stated.

"It was crucial to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that went New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we demonstrated our true selves today and we likely revealed who we are by not getting the win as well.

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

"Elements of that performance indicate we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just must 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 held up over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the opponents.

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

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we must apply what we have gained.

"This is the initial occasion this team has been united since the Six Nations. To get that unity immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've been to winning, I think. We dominated the second half, territory, pressure, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Response

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the importance of a victory against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we required a reaction at the break," he said. "We could surrender or decide to fight back.

"We had no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we recover for next week because Argentina will not make it simpler."