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"Victory was there. We know victory was within reach."
Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.
Scotland trailed 17-0 at the interval, only to fight back and draw level on the hour.
However, the All Blacks, who had multiple members sent to the penalty box, struck 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 pure determination," Townsend remarked.
"It was crucial to kick on when it got to seventeen all and there were a few key instances that went New Zealand's way.
"Outstanding second period, we showed our true selves today and we probably revealed who we are by not getting the win as well.
"Progress is evident in this team and we have to win those crucial points when the match is there for us.
"Elements of that performance show we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that following advance."
Crucial Events of the Game
- Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn brought Scotland back into an gripping contest.
- 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 opponents.
"Opponents get fatigued 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 facing New Zealand again soon. We meet Argentina and we need to apply what we have learned.
"This is the initial occasion this team has played together since the Six Nations. To get that unity immediately is difficult and to see it grow during the game is positive.
"However it's so disheartening with that effort that we didn't get a win.
"It's the closest we've come to victory, I think. We controlled the later stages, territory, pressure, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the encounter.
"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a crucial game next week and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."
Captain's Response
Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "bittersweet" and stressed the importance of a victory against Argentina, having started the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.
"I told the boys we needed a response at half time," he said. "We could surrender or decide to fight back.
"We had no downside and everything to gain.
"We have to bounce back for the upcoming match because Argentina aren't going to make it simpler."
