Scotland's long wait for a first ever win over New Zealand goes on after a 23-17 defeat at Murrayfield, despite a spirited second-half comeback. The hosts trailed 17-0 at half-time but levelled the scores early in the second period, only for Damian McKenzie to snatch victory for the All Blacks with a try and a late penalty.
New Zealand were reduced to 14 men for a total of 30 minutes after three yellow cards, but still managed to hold off Scotland's relentless pressure. Captain Sione Tuipulotu admitted the momentum shift after the break was one of the biggest he has experienced, but lamented the final outcome.
Scotland's tries came from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn, with Finn Russell adding a conversion and a penalty. However, they were unable to capitalise fully on their numerical advantage, with Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson both held up over the line.
Damian McKenzie proved the difference, first with a stunning 50-22 kick that set up his own try, then with a long-range penalty in the final minute. The result means Scotland have now lost 31 of their 33 Tests against the All Blacks, with two draws.
