DAILY BRIDGE CLUB:

With one deal to go in the Spingold final, DIAMOND (Platnick-Brogeland-Lindqvist) had rallied but still trailed potent LAVAZZA by three IMPs. Thousands on the internet held their breath.

With LAVAZZA NorthSouth, the auction was as shown. When North doubled three diamonds, East, Brian Platnick, asked about its meaning, as was his right. North said the double was constructive but not for penalty, so Platnick astutely passed; a return to three hearts would have invited a penalty double.

South bid four spades. Making five, plus 450.

In the replay, West opened one heart, and North tried 1NT. South bid two hearts, a “transfer” to spades, and West risked three diamonds. After two passes, South doubled that, and East-West ended at three hearts doubled, down four. Plus 800 to DIAMOND gave them eight IMPs and last-gasp victory.

It was an amazing win, especially for a team that plowed through seven days with only four players.

DAILY QUESTION: You hold: A6 K4 1095 2 AKQ82.Youarethe dealer. What is your opening call?

ANSWER: If you open one club and hear a majorsuit response from partner, you will have no second bid. A bid of two diamonds would be a “reverse,” showing at least a bit more strength. A jump to three clubs would promise a sixcard suit, and 1NT would be a significant underbid. Open 1NT though your pattern is not quite balanced.