DAILY BRIDGE CLUB

In a breathtaking final, John DIAMOND- Brian Platnick and Boye BrogelandEspen Lindqvist won the Spingold Knockout Teams at the ACBL’s Summer NABC. In a stirring fourth- quarter rally, they edged LAVAZZA ( BildeDuboin, Bocchi- Sementa, Madala- Bianchedi), 121 to 116.

DIAMOND started shakily, losing heavily in today’s deal. South’s two- heart opening was allegedly a weak two- bid. ( Nobody could deny it was weak.) East doubled after two passes, and West passed for penalty. When North wriggled with an “SOS redouble,” North- South found their spade fit, but that didn’t help them.

West made the indicated lead of the king of trumps, and the defense cleared three rounds. Declarer took two trump tricks and the ace of diamonds, down five. DIAMOND’s East- West made 3NT in the replay, but LAVAZZA gained 12 IMPs.

Why experts indulge in bids such as two hearts against world- class opponents is beyond my comprehension. Still, South won the Spingold while I sit tapping at my keyboard. DAILY QUESTION You hold: sides vulnerable. The dealer, at your right, opens three hearts. What do you say?

ANSWER: To avoid being stolen from, you must assume your partner has some of the missing points. Bid 3NT. An alternative is to double, then bid 3NT next if he responds three spades ( to give him the option of returning to four spades). But if partner responded four of a minor suit, you might miss your best and only makable game. South dealer Neither side vulnerable