Bridge

South could claim all of the tricks when the jack of clubs fell in three rounds, N-S +720. West must begin with an unlikely spade for the defense to hold South to eleven tricks.

South had several options in the bidding. He could have opened 2NT (20-21) despite owning a singleton king of clubs that is now permissible with the change in the laws. He also considered a demand two bid but this collection was hardly worth that action. He settled upon the minor suit opening, hoping to survive the first round of bidding. Partner's two-level response was promising but North was a passed hand. The reverse into spades established a gameforcing auction but South elected to signoff at 3NT when partner raised diamonds.

South is off two fast spade losers and needs the jack of clubs to drop in three rounds to make 6NT when West does not lead a spade.

West would rarely start with a spade on this auction which amply illustrates the difficulty of an opening lead. The recap was replete with results of +720 for most N-S pairs. Two pairs landed in 6NT and were unduly rewarded when West failed to find the spade lead.

Author: Dave Willis - visit his website at www.insidebridge.ca

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