Some of the various ways that I've seen people open a compact Mac case are downright appalling. All you need is the long-handled Torx and the Mac face down. Loosen the 5 screws, then on the two in handle and two at bottom, put the screwdriver on the screw head. Apply force down the shaft with one hand while pulling up on the handle (or one of Mac's feet for bottom screws) with your other hand.
You can pull off the rear bucket, straight up, and set it aside with the screws in place.
No mess, never fails.