Danny Bloor has hailed the role of the unsung heroes in the revival at Lewes.

After failing to win any of their first seven games this season, the Rooks have taken seven points from the last nine.

It would have been three wins on the trot had they taken their chances in a goalless draw at East Thurrock on Tuesday.

Lewes head to Bognor for today’s FA Cup first qualifying round tie in buoyant mood.

The revival has coincided with James Stinson and Elliott Romain coming into the team.

The pair were the lesser names in a long list of summer arrivals, former Eastbourne Borough defender Stinson signing after a trial and striker Romain trying his luck at a higher level after playing for Three Bridges.

Versatile Australian Stinson has stood out as a holding midfielder in the last three games while Romain has played superbly as a lone striker.

Rooks assistant boss Bloor said: “It is no coincidence since James Stinson came into the middle of midfield we have gone three games unbeaten. He was our man-of-the-match on Tuesday.

“James played some games in midfield for Tommy (Widdrington) at Eastbourne last season. I speak to Tommy quite a lot and, with Jack Walder being out injured, Tommy said give him a go in that holding midfield role.

“Prior to him coming in it wasn’t working but he has come in and done very well.

“His versatility has been key to us and he has a winning mentality.”

Romain has been keeping Luke Blewden and Terry Dodd out of the side in the last three games, such is his form.

Bloor said: “At the moment if you asked Luke Blewden or Terry Dodd the first name they would put on the teamsheet it would be Elliott.

“He was outstanding again at East Thurrock on Tuesday. He just does not stop working and if you were a centre-half he would be the last player you want to mark. He runs, he fights, he works for the cause.

“Reputations count for nothing with Garry and I. In the summer Elliott approached us and wanted to give it a go at this level. He has earned his chance on merit.

“Luke Blewden and Terry Dodd remain very good players. Terry scored two goals for the development team on Wednesday. Their turn will come so Elliott knows he has got to keep working.”

Lewes continued to be hampered by availability as they head to Bognor. Jack Walder, Henry Muggeridge, Alex Malins, James Fergany and Sam Cole are all injured, with only Cole standing a chance of playing.

Ollie Rowe is suspended, Louis John is not allowed to play under the terms of his loan, Sam Crabb is on holiday and Ross Treleaven is struggling with illness.