NEW CANADIAN BRIDGE

Saturday, November 7, 2020 South won the spade lead and passed the queen of clubs to the king. The spade return resulted in a one-trick set when a heart finesse failed, N-S -50. West could not overcall two spades because this action would disclose spades and a minor. He could have ventured two clubs to reveal a onesuited hand but rather fancied his chances of defeating 1NT. If North had hypothetically transferred to hearts, West would then back in with two spades. It has become increasingly popular to open 1NT with a five-card major when holding 15-17 HCP. I prefer to open in the major unless you hold a one-loser suit such as AKJ10x or KQJ10x. Some pairs employ Puppet Stayman in response to 1NT to search for a 5-3 fit but North cannot reasonably venture Stayman holding only an ace and a king. This call ensured N-S of a dismal result when North could not consider any action. South should open one heart, in my view, where partner would offer a Bergen raise of three clubs delineating fourcard heart support but less than a limit raise. South's subsequent leap to the major suit game would end the auction. The heart king and club king are both offside but ten tricks would still roll home with the ace of diamonds residing in West.

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

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