E Brake Cable Question

Re-installed 8.75 axle back into car and currently putting the brakes back together as well. The point I am at is putting new shoes on the back plate and re-attaching the e-brake cable to the bracket that is affixed to the rear brake shoe.

To say the least, depressing the spring on the end of the e-brake cable to get it back onto the bracket is a chore. Any words of advise as to method and tool to use other than growing a third hand?