🔗 Share this article

"Victory could have been ours. We know the win was there."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but felt deflated by a seventeen to twenty-five defeat at Murrayfield.

The hosts trailed 17-0 at the interval, only to fight back and tie the score on the hour.

Nonetheless, the All Blacks, who had three players placed in the sin bin, 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 all character," Townsend stated.

"It was crucial 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 period, we showed who we are today and we probably revealed our identity by not getting the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we have to win those big moments when the game is there for us.

"Aspects of that performance indicate we are competitive with the top sides in the world. We just need to make that next step."

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 visitors.

"Teams get fatigued when you knock on the door," said Townsend, who has now lost three 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 play Argentina and we must put in what we have gained.

"This is the initial occasion this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that unity immediately is difficult and to see it develop during the game is encouraging.

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

"It represents the nearest we've come to victory, I think. We controlled the second half, field position, pressure, skill. 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 more important games to come in the championship."

Captain's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the defeat as "mixed feelings" and stressed the significance of a win against Argentina, having opened the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I told the boys we needed a reaction at the break," he said. "Either surrender or decide to fight back.

"There was no downside and all to play for.

"It is essential we recover for next week because Argentina will not make it simpler."