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"Victory could have been ours. We are aware the win was within reach."
Head coach Gregor Townsend expressed pride in the Scottish display against New Zealand but felt disappointed by a 25-17 loss at their home ground.
The hosts trailed seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and tie the score on the hour.
However, the All Blacks, who had multiple members placed in the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to deny Scotland the opportunity of a historic win in this match-up.
"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that second half showing was all character," Townsend remarked.
"We needed to push forward when it got to 17-17 and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.
"Outstanding second period, we showed our true selves today and we probably showed who we are by not getting the win as well.
"There's growth in this team and we must win those crucial points when the game is there for us.
"Aspects of that performance indicate we are up there with the best teams in the world. We just need to make that following advance."
Crucial Events of the Game
- Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled 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 scored for the opponents.
"Teams get fatigued when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now lost multiple home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by narrow margins.
"I would like to be facing New Zealand again next week. We play Argentina and we must apply what we have learned.
"This is the first time this squad has been united since the tournament. To get that cohesion immediately is challenging and to see it develop during the game is positive.
"However it's so disheartening with that effort that we failed to achieve a win.
"It's the closest we've come to winning, I think. We dominated the later stages, field position, intensity, ability. We've not done that against New Zealand in our past and we are better for the experience.
"The team's path doesn't stop today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."
Skipper's Reaction
Scottish captain Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed the significance of a victory against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a historic result against the United States.
"I told the boys we required a reaction at the break," he said. "We could surrender or decide to fight back.
"There was nothing to lose and all to play for.
"It is essential we recover for next week because Argentina will not make it any easier."
