In the build-up to this Nations Championship clash with New Zealand, Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu had spoken about ‘chasing greatness’.It was a chance to lay down a marker and finally claim a first-ever victory over the All Blacks after so many near misses in recent years.Yet, towards the end of a dreadful second half in which Scotland failed to score a single point, the only thing they were chasing was shadows.Scotland were only three points behind at half-time and, despite being outplayed and outmuscled for large spells, they had somehow managed to stay in the fight.But the second half was a total non-event for Gregor Townsend’s side. They were miles off it as the All Blacks dominated every area.There is no sense in talking about referee Andrew Brace. Yes, some of his decisions were questionable at best. Finn Russell had a quiet game as Scotland were mesmerised by the All BlacksHe was very lenient towards the All Blacks at times in terms of how they were straying offside and also around infringements at the breakdown.But Scotland didn’t lose this game because of the referee. They lost it because they fundamentally aren’t good enough against the top sides.They aren’t consistent enough and they can’t apply themselves properly for a full 80 minutes. This is a team who cannot be trusted.You never know what you are going to get from them. They can beat France and play some thrilling rugby, but they can also leave the distinct impression of a team who have reached their ceiling under Townsend.In the bigger picture, that victory over France didn’t actually change anything. We know Scotland can beat France. They have done it on several occasions under Townsend.But the gap to the other elite teams — South Africa, New Zealand and Ireland — remains as big as ever.Scotland’s big chance to beat the All Blacks was actually last year but they still failed to get over the line on that occasion.This game was different. The All Blacks were simply far too good, too quick and too accurate in both deed and thought. All Black full-back Damian McKenzie is tackled Gregor BrownThe fact that Scotland’s three tries were scored by their hooker felt emblematic of how their backline failed to fire any meaningful shots.Finn Russell had a quiet game. So, too, did Tuipulotu. These are the guys Scotland need to step up in these big matches.This was a game which left the distinct impression that these are two teams heading in different directions; the All Blacks reborn and rejuvenated under Dave Rennie, Scotland flatlining under Townsend.The game against Australia next weekend now becomes must-win if Scotland are to have a fixture of any meaning or relevance in the finals weekend of this Nations Championship. Townsend will know that his best chance to become the first Scotland head coach to beat the All Blacks has surely gone.For as long as his team suffer these drop-offs, these brainfades within matches, it is difficult to see how they move forward or take the next step.