Sunday, May 16, 2004

BRIDGE

NORTH’S cue-bid of 2C showed a sound raise of partner’s spade suit. (A direct raise of spades, to any level, would have been pre-emptive.) When South indicated a non-minimum overcall by showing a second suit, North was happy to bid the spade game. How would you play this contract when West leads the two of clubs, East winning with the king and continuing with the club race? You ruff the second club and West unblocks the club queen. You are now down to four trumps-the same number as one of the defenders, should the trumps break 4-1. When you play the queen and ten of trumps, East shows out. You must now take steps to circumvent the blockage in the diamond suit. Do you see what is necessary? You must cash the ace and king of diamonds before playing another trump. West follows, you are pleased to see, and you return to your hand with a third round of trumps. When you draw West’s last trump, you throw the blocking queen of diamonds from the dummy. You can then score three more diamond tricks in your hand, making the game.

What would you say now on the West cards?

Answer

You want to play in game but it is risky to bid 3NT with no club stop. Even if partner does hold, say, K-x in clubs the lead will come through this holding rather than up to it. It is best to continue with 2S. Although this reverse by responder tends to suggest five hearts, you can always revert to diamonds if partner gives you unwanted heart support.

Awards: 2S-10, 3NT-7, 4D/3D-3.

— Knight Features

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