🔗 Share this article

"The win was there. We are aware the win was there."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed satisfaction in Scotland's performance against 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 storm back and tie the score on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had multiple members placed in the penalty box, scored late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this fixture.

"I feel let down first of all, because the hard work that went into that latter period performance was all character," Townsend remarked.

"It was crucial to kick on when it got to seventeen all and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Exceptional second period, we showed who we are today and we probably showed who we are by failing to secure the win as well.

"There's growth in this team and we have to win those crucial points when the game is there for us.

"Elements of that performance show we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that next step."

Crucial Events of the Match

• Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping contest.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been held up over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the opponents.

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

"This is the initial occasion this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion straight away is challenging 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 winning, I think. We dominated 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 doesn't stop today. We have a very big game next week and more important games to come in the championship."

Skipper's Response

Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu described the defeat as "mixed feelings" and emphasized the importance of a victory against Argentina, having opened the fall matches with a record score against the United States.

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

"We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"We have to recover for next week because Argentina will not make it any easier."