🔗 Share this article

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

Manager Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in the Scottish performance versus New Zealand but was deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at their home ground.

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

However, the All Blacks, who had multiple members sent to the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

"I feel let down primarily, because the effort that went into that second half showing was all character," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a couple of big moments that went New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second half, we demonstrated who we are today and we likely revealed our identity by not getting the win as well.

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

"Elements of that game show we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just need to 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 held up over the line in the first half when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan scored for the visitors.

"Teams 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 single digit margins.

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

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

"But it's so frustrating with that performance that we didn't get a win.

"It represents the nearest we've come to winning, I think. We controlled the second half, territory, pressure, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.

"Our journey continues today. We have a very big game coming up and bigger games to come in the championship."

Captain's Reaction

Scotland leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "bittersweet" and stressed the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a response at the break," he said. "We could surrender or decide to fight back.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we recover for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."