Minecraft: why can't I find the end stronghold?

I have used 35 eyes of ended and I found the point to dig down and find it. Except, my eye went into the floor so I dig down n down until the eye hovers. So I dig down some more and find a pit of lava. No stronghold yet. Would or could ut be under the lava?

I spent ages looking for it 2 hours solid and nothing. Should I use water and look below the lava

Lewis

Most probably but just to make sure go back up to the surface and throw some eyes again to make sure the game isn't being glitchy. And if it is in the same spot then it might be in the lava.

Cameron