bridge

bridge

Both vulnerable. North deals.

NORTH

x10

uQ 7

vQ 9 4 3

wA K Q 9 7 5

WEST EAST

xQ 8 6 3 2 xA J 7 4

uJ 10 9 6 4 u8 5 3 2

vA 8 v6

w2 wJ 10 4 3

SOUTH

xK 9 5

uA K

vK J 10 7 5 2

w8 6

The bidding:

NORTH EAST SOUTH WEST

1w Pass 1v Pass

2v Pass 4NT Pass

5v Pass Pass Pass

Opening lead: Two of w

A declarer has an enormous advantage in the play of the cards — he can see all his side’s assets while the defenders must convey information by the cards they play. Consider this deal.

After North’s opening bid and diamond support with his rebid, slam would have been a fair shot if North had a second ace. When Blackwood revealed that two aces were missing, South stopped in five diamonds.

West led the deuce of clubs and had to find a way to partner’s hand to get a club return for the ruff. Left to his own devices, West would have had a toss-up. However, East made life easy for partner. He followed with the jack of clubs, obviously announcing an entry in the higher-ranking side suit. Two tricks later the contract was down one trick as East won the spade shift with the ace and gave partner a club ruff.

2010 Tribune Media Services

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