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"The win was there. We know the win was there."
Manager Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but was deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at Murrayfield.
Scotland were behind seventeen to nil at the interval, only to fight back and draw level 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 chance of a historic win in this fixture.
"I feel let down primarily, because the effort that went into that second half showing was all character," Townsend remarked.
"It was crucial to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.
"Outstanding second half, we showed our true selves today and we likely revealed our identity by failing to secure the win as well.
"There's growth in this team and we must win those big moments when the game is there for us.
"Aspects of that game indicate we are up there with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that following advance."
Key Moments of the Match
- Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping battle.
- Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the visitors.
"Opponents get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.
"I'd love to be facing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to apply what we have learned.
"It marks the first time this squad has been united since the Six Nations. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging and to see it grow during the game is positive.
"But it's so disheartening with that effort that we failed to achieve a win.
"It's the closest we've been to winning, I think. We dominated the later stages, field position, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.
"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and more important games to come in the championship."
Skipper's Response
Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the importance of a victory against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.
"I told the boys we needed a reaction at half time," he said. "Either surrender or decide to go for it.
"We had nothing to lose and all to play for.
"It is essential we recover for next week because Argentina will not make it any easier."
