Help with Removing Stuck CRT Socket (Sony KD-34XBR970)

[RCATUBES]

This is probably a dumb question, but I'm assuming you've already checked and double checked to make sure there are no physical clips or other devices holding the neckboard onto the neck? For example, my RCA has a plastic bracket on the neck with two clips that clip into the neckboard, and if you try to take it off without releasing those clips it's not going anywhere.