BRIDGE

Declarer won the ace, crossed to dummy with a heart and played three rounds of diamonds discarding two spades and a club as West threw a heart. East returned a spade for the ten and jack but West exited with the jack of hearts. A fourth diamond drove out the queen on which West let go of the six of spades. A switch to the ten of clubs gave West the rest of the tricks and the contract was down four, N-S -200.

South was precluded from responding two spades because he did not hold two of the top three honors. When West overcalled two spades and partner ventured three diamonds, he was endplayed into advancing to 3NT, a hopeless contract on this layout.

North should not open with two clubs, in my opinion. A one diamond opening would rarely be passed out and he will receive another opportunity if partner passes.

The demand two bid had rapidly elevated the auction culminating in a dismal game.

The only game that N-S can make is four hearts - a Moysian fit. If North openes the minor and subsequently reverses into hearts, there would at least be a chance of reaching the heart game. Author: Dave Willis - visit his website at www.insidebridge.ca Questions can be sent with a stamped, selfaddressed envelope to The New Canadian Bridge c/o Torstar Syndication Services, One Yonge St., Toronto, M5E 1E6