Scotland Must Take the Following Move After New Zealand Defeat - Coach Townsend

"The win could have been ours. We know victory was there."

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at Murrayfield.

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

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members placed in the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the opportunity of a first victory in this match-up.

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

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we showed our true selves today and we likely revealed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

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

"Aspects of that performance show we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that following advance."

Key Moments of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping 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 tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in three home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by single digit margins.

"I would like to be playing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we must apply what we have learned.

"It marks the first time this team has been united since the tournament. To get that unity immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I think. We dominated the later stages, field position, intensity, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and stressed 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 reaction at the break," 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 next week because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."