🔗 Share this article

"The win was there. We know the win was within reach."

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in Scotland's performance against New Zealand but felt deflated by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.

The hosts were behind seventeen to nil at the interval, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

Nonetheless, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, scored 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 effort that went into that latter period performance was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

"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 half, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably revealed our identity 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.

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

Key Moments of the Match

• 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 notched points for the visitors.

"Opponents get tired when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.

"I would like to be facing New Zealand again next week. We play Argentina and we must put in what we have learned.

"It marks the first time this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.

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

"It's the closest we've come to winning, I believe. We controlled the second half, field position, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the encounter.

"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Response

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "bittersweet" and emphasized the significance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a response at the break," he said. "Either we lie down or choose to go for it.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we recover for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."