Scotland Needs to Take the Next Step Following New Zealand Defeat - Townsend

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

Head coach Gregor Townsend voiced satisfaction in the Scottish performance versus New Zealand but felt disappointed by a seventeen to twenty-five loss at their home ground.

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

However, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the sin bin, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the chance of a historic win in this match-up.

"I'm really disappointed 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.

"Exceptional second period, we showed who we are today and we likely showed 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 show we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Game

• Tries 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 opening period 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 been defeated in multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again soon. We play Argentina and we need to apply what we have gained.

"It marks the first time this team has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

"However it's so frustrating with that performance that we failed to achieve 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 past and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a very big game next week and bigger games to come in the Six Nations."

Captain's Response

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

"I told the boys we needed a response at the break," he said. "We could we lie down or choose to fight back.

"We had no downside and all to play for.

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