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Scotland fall short of New Zealand shock

Dream debut: New Zealand wing Mark Telea (left) scored two tries on his international debut. ©AFP

Edinburgh (AFP) - Scotland were left waiting for their first victory over New Zealand after the All Blacks overcame a nine-point deficit in the second half to win 31-23 in a thrilling Autumn international at Murrayfield on Sunday.

The visitors looked set to cruise to a 30th win in 32 meetings between the sides, including two draws, when they raced into a 14-0 lead after just seven minutes thanks to tries from Samisoni Taukei'aho and Mark Telea.

Scotland hit back to level inside 15 minutes as Stuart Hogg forced a penalty try before Darcy Graham intercepted an errant pass to cross in the corner.

A trio of Finn Russell penalties put the hosts in command, but Gregor Townsend's men were left to rue being penalised three times on the New Zealand line.

Three-time world champions New Zealand were much more clinical when their chances came in the final 20 minutes as Scott Barrett muscled over before Telea rounded off a dream debut with his second try of the match.

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