For the first time ever: Defeated by an Ikea product

I have tried for over 2 hours to get past step 2 of assembling the Liatorp sofa table, and have had to admit defeat, to continue would be insanity, especially in this heat. Never in my life have I had to give up on an Ikea product, and I've put together a lot of Ikea furniture, but there really is a first time for everything.

Never mind the specific problems I've been having (damaging the very top of it in the process), I would just recommend that if you're ever tempted to buy this product, think twice. Three or four times, in fact. Or at least have an extra pair of hands, a drill, and a variety of other screws on hand too. It also would help if someone is experienced/savvy enough to jury-rig it if necessary.

Here it sits until the next time my handy friends visit:

And if three of us can't get it together, it will be a waste of my money and I'll be even unhappier. 

I'll amend my recommendation to think carefully about buying this item: Think very carefully before you buy any Liatorp product. Because if this is how assembly goes, I'll take a pass, thanks.

This has been your consumer report for the day; comments are off.

Peace.