problem starting rebuild

[a7xh7]

i have this posted on the other forum as well.

situation is newly rebuilt engine, stock fuel system and ecu, stock ports. i've been trying to get it started for the first time but it is not happening. deflood procedure is where im at now..

concerns:
-- 2 inches of free play at clutch pedal, is the clutch disk partial engaged during cranking? <--- not sure if this could cause problems starting since the motor seems to be turning at a good speed, also im not hearing any funny noises that indicate that it is dragging..

-- battery issues? i have a charger that i use to charge it since it seems to die after 3 cycles of 10 second cranking

what is working:
-- fuel. fuel filter newly installed. cleaned/flow tested injectors.
-- no codes
-- new spark plugs

thanks! im out of ideas what else to do since this is my first rebuild