🔗 Share this article

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

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in Scotland's display versus New Zealand but was deflated by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

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

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, 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 first of all, because the hard work that went into that second half showing was pure determination," Townsend remarked.

"We needed to kick on when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second period, we demonstrated who we are 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 game is there for us.

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

Key Moments of the Game

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the first half 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 lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

"I would like to be playing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we must apply what we have gained.

"It marks the first time this squad has played together since the tournament. To get that unity straight away is challenging and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

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

"It represents the nearest we've come to victory, I believe. We dominated the second half, territory, intensity, skill. We've not done that against New Zealand in our history and we are better for the encounter.

"Our journey doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Response

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu described the loss as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a historic result against the United States.

"I told the boys we needed a reaction at half time," he said. "Either we lie down or choose to fight back.

"There was nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"We have to recover for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."