DAILY BRIDGE CLUB

“If at first you don’t succeed, try playing left field” — graffiti

At today’s 3NT, South’s first move was to take the ace of hearts and finesse with his jack of clubs. He didn’t succeed. West won and led another heart.

South won and cashed the ace of clubs, and when East discarded, it was too late for South to try out at another position. He led a diamond to the ace, hoping for a miracle, but the defense got a diamond, a club and three hearts.

South was out in left field. He would have been safe for nine or more tricks if the clubs came in but could do better. South can win the first heart with the king, lead a club to the king and return a club. If East followed, South would finesse with the jack. He would be sure of at least four club tricks and nine in all.

When East discards on the second club, South has a second chance. He starts the diamonds, hoping for three diamonds and two tricks in every other suit. As the cards lie, he gets home easily. DAILY QUESTION You hold: dealer, at your left, opens one diamond. Your partner doubles, and the next player passes. What do you say?

ANSWER: You must not settle for a response of two clubs, which would show no strength, or 1NT, which would show at most nine points. You must invite game. A bid of is acceptable. If, not unreasonably, you judge to force to game, start with a cue bid of two diamonds. South dealer N- S vulnerable