Fragment coupling to access the backbone of armatol A. Reagents and conditions: a) (i) [Cp2Zr(H)Cl], CH2Cl2, rt; (ii) Me2Zn, CH2Cl2, −78 °C; (iii) 78, CH2Cl2, −78 °C to rt, 64%; b) H2 (1 atm), Pd/C, EtOH, rt; c) TPAP, NMO, 4ÅMS, CH2Cl2, 0 °C to rt, 53% (from 87); d) (i) [Cp2Zr(H)Cl], CH2Cl2, rt; (ii) Me2Zn, CH2Cl2, −78 °C; (iii) ent-78, CH2Cl2, −78 °C to rt; e) H2 (1 atm), Pd/C, EtOH, rt, 52% (from ent-78); f) TPAP, NMO, 4Å MS, CH2Cl2, 0 °C to rt, 90%.