Lewes boss Steve Ibbitson believes his youngsters are close to being a good side.

The Rooks are still looking for their first win in Blue Square south after a 0-0 stalemate at home to Basingstoke gave them a fifth draw in eight games.

But Ibbitson’s men turned this second-bottom versus second-top clash on its head with a super performance despite missing the likes of Danny Cullip, Chris Breach and Williams Peauroux.

Former Albion youngster Andy Pearson was outstanding at centre-back while Ross Sutton, just 17, was equally impressive at left-back.

Ibbitson said: “I was worried after the last couple of games because I could see the confidence waning but we played really well.

“It is a thin line between doing well and struggling. We played the second in the table side and they have gone away pleased to get a point.”

Lewes had the better chances. Ryan Storrie had a header cleared off the line and David Wheeler was denied late on.

Meanwhile, Sam Fisk has left the club. Lewes are away to Chelmsford tonight.

Lewes: Banks; Timms, Barness (sub Royce), Pearson, Timms, Sutton Wheeler, Kirkwood, Chamberlain, Keehan (sub Walder), Storrie, Beck (sub Pople). Subs not used: Crabb, Foreman.