Murrayfield Heartbreak as Scotland Fall Short Against All Blacks
Gregor Townsend was left to rue a disastrous start and critical defensive lapses as Scotland suffered an agonising 17-25 defeat against New Zealand at Murrayfield, extending their 120-year wait for a first-ever victory over the All Blacks.
Costly Start Proves Decisive
The match began in nightmare fashion for the hosts, with Cam Roigard crossing after just three minutes following a massive defensive gap exploited by Josh Lord. Despite playing with 14 men shortly before half-time, the visitors extended their lead when Will Jordan scored their second try, capitalising on acres of space down Scotland's left flank.
New Zealand remarkably received three yellow cards throughout the match but still managed to establish a commanding 17-0 half-time lead that ultimately proved insurmountable, despite Scotland's remarkable second-half fightback.
Furious Comeback Falls Just Short
Scotland emerged transformed after the break, with Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn crossing for tries to level the match at 17-17. The momentum had swung decisively in Scotland's favour, and they came within inches of taking the lead when Darcy Graham had the ball knocked from his grasp while diving for the line.
Just as history seemed within reach, Damian McKenzie scored a stunning late try in the corner against the run of play, breaking Scottish hearts and securing the victory for the All Blacks despite spending much of the second half camped in their own territory.
Townsend's Pride and Frustration
'It is hard to find the words,' said Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend, whose team has now suffered narrow defeats to New Zealand in 2017, 2022 and this latest encounter. 'I'm proud of the effort and character that went into that performance, but also really frustrated. The win was there and we needed to kick on when it was 17-17.'
Townsend highlighted the first 10-15 minutes as particularly costly, admitting 'you can't start slowly in defence or be a little bit passive against an attacking team like New Zealand.' He also pointed to two first-half occasions where Scotland were held up over the try-line as pivotal moments that could have changed the game's complexion.
The Scotland coach now faces injury concerns over fly-half Finn Russell, who was substituted late in the game with knee and ankle issues, though initial assessments suggest they may not be serious.
All Blacks fly-half Beauden Barrett acknowledged the intensity of the contest, stating: 'It was a true Test match and exactly what we prepared for. We have a lot of respect for this Scotland side. It wasn't an ideal second half for us but we found a way.'
Scotland now turn their attention to upcoming autumn Tests against Argentina and Tonga, hoping to build on the positives from this performance while addressing the critical errors that cost them a historic victory.
