bridge

bridge

Neither vulnerable. South deals.

NORTH

xQ 7 5 3

uQ 7 5 3

v4

wA 8 7 3

WEST EAST

x8 4 xK 9 2

uVoid uK J 10 6

vA Q 10 9 8 5 3 vK J 6 2

wJ 9 6 2 w10 5

SOUTH

xA J 10 6

uA 9 8 4 2

v7

wK Q 4

The bidding:

SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST

1u 2v 3u Pass

4u Pass Pass Dbl

Pass Pass Pass

Opening lead: Six of w

Study the bidding and play of this deal and decide: Who, if anyone, erred in either the bidding or play?

At first glance it might seem that East should have supported diamonds somewhere along the line, but he wanted to do nothing to interfere with his opponents getting to hearts at a level where he could express his doubts about them being able to fulfill their contract. He got his wish!

West led a third-best club, won in the closed hand. West discarded a diamond on the low trump lead and dummy’s seven lost to the ten. Back came another club, won with dummy’s ace and a low trump was returned, East splitting his honors. Declarer won and returned a trump to the king. A low diamond was won by West who returned a club for East to ruff. Down one!

Take a bow if you faulted declarer for not playing a diamond at trick two. We have not yet found a way to defeat the contract then, but would be glad to hear from you if you can!

2012 Tribune Media Services