🔗 Share this article

"Victory could have been ours. We are aware the win was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in the Scottish display against New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 defeat at their home ground.

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

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

"I'm really disappointed first of all, because the effort that went into that second half performance was all character," Townsend stated.

"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.

"Outstanding second period, we showed our true selves today and we likely showed our identity by not getting the win as well.

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

"Aspects of that performance show we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just must make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping 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 been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as head coach - all by single digit margins.

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

"It marks the first time this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that unity immediately is challenging 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 controlled the second half, field position, pressure, skill. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are improved for the encounter.

"Our journey continues today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "mixed feelings" 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 required a response at the break," he said. "Either surrender or decide to fight back.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we bounce back for next week because Argentina will not make it any easier."