I have removed both manual and auto transmissions from earlier 2.8L S10s. I have always been able to "tilt" the motor and trans down from the back of the trans to get at the top bolts. I don't know if this will work on the 2.2L engine, but they are the same transmission bolt patterns.
I'm not sure if that will help you, but I do have some advice when you get it out. Try and bend back or dent the floor board / trans tunnel with a hammer to make it easier in the future to get the bolts.
Good luck!!! and let us know how it went when you get it done, so everyone can learn.