DAILY BRIDGE CLUB:

My “Simple Saturday” columns focus on basic technique and logical thinking.

If I’m asked why I find bridge such a compelling game, I can cite its diverse elements such as problemsolving, psychology and mathematics. But what I like most is the partnership aspect: I enjoy doing something WITH somebody.

You must take care of your partner. Today’s West leads his singleton club against four spades, and East wins and returns the eight. East’s eight of clubs is a “suit-preference” signal: his highest remaining club to direct West’s attention to hearts, the high-ranking side suit.

After West ruffs, he can lead a heart to East’s ace — but then East has a problem. Does he lead another heart, hoping West has the king, or a second club, hoping to promote a trump trick for partner?

West can save his partner. After he ruffs the second club, his correct defense is to lead the king and then a second heart.

DAILY QUESTION: You hold: ♠ AKQ103 ♥ Q42

◆K 94♣ J 10. Your partner opens one diamond, you bid one spade and he jumps to three diamonds. The opponents pass. What do you say?

ANSWER: If partner has a sound minimum such as 65, A 3, A Q J 1 0 6 3 , A 5 4, you will have a chance at 7NT, and six diamonds will be all but a laydown. Rebid three spades — after partner’s strength-showing jump, any bid by you is forcing — and show your diamond support next.