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"Victory could have been ours. We are aware victory was there."
Manager Gregor Townsend voiced pride in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but felt deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at their home ground.
The hosts trailed seventeen to nil 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 sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a first victory in this match-up.
"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the hard work that went into that second half performance was all character," Townsend remarked.
"We needed to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.
"Outstanding second period, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably revealed who we are by not getting 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.
"Elements of that performance show we are up there 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 brought 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.
"Opponents get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.
"I would like to be facing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we must put in what we have learned.
"This is the first time this squad has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it develop during the game is positive.
"However it's so disheartening with that performance that we didn't get a win.
"It's the closest we've come to victory, I think. We controlled the later stages, field position, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the experience.
"Our journey continues today. We have a crucial game coming up and more important games to come in the championship."
Captain's Response
Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.
"I instructed the boys we needed a response at half time," he said. "Either we lie down or choose to fight back.
"There was no downside and all to play for.
"It is essential we recover for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."
