bridge

bridge

Neither vulnerable. West deals.

NORTH

xK 10 8 7 4 2

uA 8 7 5

vJ 6

w6

WEST EAST

xA 5 xQ J 6

uJ 10 9 6 u3

v10 3 2 vQ 9 7 5 4

wA 8 7 5 wQ 10 9 3

SOUTH

x9 3

uK Q 4 2

vA K 8

wK J 4 2

The bidding:

WEST NORTH EAST SOUTH

Pass Pass Pass 1NT

Pass 2u Pass 2x

Pass 4x Pass Pass

Pass

Opening lead: Jack of u

This deal from the 2010 European Championship appeals to us. The East-West defenders were Bauke Muller and Simon de Wijs of Amsterdam.

Four hearts is an easier contract to play than four spades — the 4-4 eight-card fit is better than the 6-2 one. However the Russian pair was in the spade game and West attacked with the jack of hearts. Declarer won in hand with the king and led the nine of spades, and the Russian declarer was not ready for what hit him.

West shot up with the ace of spades and returned the six of hearts, as a suit preference card! East ruffed and reading partner’s defense, returned a club to the ace, and East’s ruff was the setting trick.

At the other table the contract was four hearts. Less than perfect defense allowed declarer to get home.

2011 Tribune Media Services