Dear Yamaha-ers

I know this is mainly a forum for the XT-models, but I have a problem with my MT-03. I took the rear wheel off to replace the brake pads and noticed the cush drive rubbers were worn out. (The XT models use the same kind off rubbers).I replaced them, but I cant get my rear wheel back.
There is not enough space between the swingarm: I lack about 1 centimeter.I have tried prying, pushing, wriggling... but I have given up for now.
I always begin at the brake disc side, sliding it between the brake pads and fit the small spacer. But when I do that there is not enough space on the sprocket side for the bigger spacer.

Is there something I'm missing? there is a gap between the rear sprocket assembly and the new rubbers, should there be no gap at all? I tried pushing the sprocket assembly as far as I could, but even without the rubbers in the wheel, it can only go so far.
Or do you have to pry the swingarm apart with a special tool or something?


I'm a total *** at this so go easy on me

Kind regards