The error-ridden All Blacks have hung on grimly to beat Scotland 24-16 at Murrayfield and preserve their 109-year unbeaten record.

In one of the least impressive New Zealand displays in recent times, they needed a 74th minute try from lock Jeremy Thrush to ensure Scotland didn’t notch their first win over the All Blacks in 30 Tests dating back to 1905.

The second-string tourists, featuring 13 personnel changes from last week’s 24-21 defeat of England, never found their rhythm against their eighth-ranked opponents.

As well as struggling to handle a ball made slippery by cold evening dew, the world champions made a hash of numerous lineouts and battled to puncture a home defence which was stout throughout.

New Zealand’s woes were reflected by the performance of five-eighth Dan Carter, making his first start for nearly a year.

Carter missed his first two shots at goal before landing his next three and his rusty efforts in general play reflected his lack of rugby before being replaced in the 56th minute.

His side were guilty of trying to be too enterprising without getting the required dominance up front.

Scotland showed last week’s 41-31 defeat of Argentina was no fluke, but ran out of energy in the dying stages, having been forced to replace three injured players in the opening half-hour.

All Blacks No.8 Victor Vito hobbled off with a leg injury just before halftime, having scored a spectacular solo try.

It came in the 10th minute, shrugging off one tackle after receiving a loose pass and using his searing pass to hold other defenders at bay on a 45m run to the left corner.

Scotland were soon 7-5 ahead when winger Tommy Seymour intercepted a short pass from All Blacks captain Richie McCaw and raced 40m.

Carter began to find his range, slotting three penalties to one from Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw as New Zealand dominated the remainder of the first half to lead 14-10.

Halfback Laidlaw reduced the margin to one point soon after the break with a penalty.

It stayed that way for 20min before Colin Slade – who moved in from the wing to replace Carter – landed a penalty, which Laidlaw immediately matched.

Laidlaw had a chance to put his team ahead with 10 minutes remaining but his first miss of the night was followed by the dagger blow from man of the match Thrush, who drove over from close range.

The All Blacks conclude their tour in Cardiff next week against Wales while Scotland host Tonga.