NEW CANADIAN BRIDGE

Saturday, January 2, 2016

East put up the ace of hearts to play another for declarer's king. The jack of spades was passed to the queen and the heart return was ruffed. A second spade drew trump and, when the top diamonds felled the queen, South could claim an overtrick. The layout could not have been more favorable with the heart ace onside, trump dividing 2-2 and the diamond queen doubleton. North's leap to three spades was weak, promising about 4-6 HCP with four-card spade support. North wanted to bid four spades but declined this action because he lacked a fifth spade. South judged to advance to game despite owning a balanced hand but a solid 15 HCP. North's spade support was certain to solidify the trump suit and the opening lead of a heart or a club would furnish a winner in that suit. The contract could be defeated on another occasion but not on this layout. There were no guarantees of success but the appearance of the dummy was a very welcome sight. The club void rendered the major suit game an excellent proposition. A club lead would be an unwelcome beginning but declarer would still prevail on this lucky layout.

Author: Dave Willis - visit his website at www.insidebridge.ca Questions on bridge can be sent with a stamped, self-addressed envelope to The New Canadian Bridge c/o Torstar Syndication Services, One Yonge St., Toronto, M5E 1E6.