If the compression tests show about 100 psi or better in all cylinders, the valve settings are good enough to run. It should start. Likely the engine is flooded or just wants to mess with you. To make sure engine isn't flooded, try starting engine with choke off or somehow tied off to prevent flooding. Don't pump the gas trying to get it to start, that only sprays more gas. Push pedal 1/2 way down and hold it while cranking. If engine still won't start, give it a snootfull of starting fluid and try same procedure to start. If still no start, start looking at ignition system, firing order, timing... You didnt bump any wires or other ign parts taking valvecover off, right? If that checks out, go back to carb for signs carb float is stuck and pouring gas into engine. Starting fluid won't start a badly flooded engine.
But if compression is good, its likely fuel or fire related.
