the word 'since' and past tense

Hi,

I am used to seeing a present perfect tense being used after the phrase 'since + time word' but this?

I know you have been telling others that since last year (or since two years ago - good too?) you were ready to play the game against us.

Can we use this format/pattern (i.e., a past tense following the phrase word) for a main clause?

Since last year (since two years ago -- good too??) we were ready to play the game against the other guys.