BRIDGE

South won the club ace to play a trump as East scored the ace but switched to the king of diamonds for the ace. A second heart drew trump and was followed by the ace and king of spades. The ten of spades was advanced but was ruffed when East contributed the seven-spot. The fifth spade could be established with another ruff but there were only 11 tricks, N-S +450.

South’s misplay had cost a second overtrick. The minor suit opening was Precision 11-15 HCP with 2+ diamonds.

The opening lead revealed that East required all of the remaining HCP for an opening bid. Declarer should pitch a diamond on the ten of spades to score twelve tricks.

It is true that the defense would earn two tricks when West begins with a diamond. However, South was presented with a golden opportunity and failed to capitalize when he played without thought.

North’s boost to game was aggressive but he did hold excellent trump support and a singleton club.

This result saddled N-S with only 14 matchpoints (44 percent) of a possible 32. Twelve tricks would have awarded N-S with at least an average plus.

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