FRANK STEWART BRIDGE

SIMPLE SATURDAY

“Simple Saturday” columns are meant to help aspiring players improve technique and develop logical thinking.

Dogma is man’s best friend. In learning bridge, you will hear about “rules” of play. Treat them only as guidelines.

At four hearts, South took the ace of diamonds and saw he was at risk of four losers only if trumps broke 4-1. For an extra chance, he led dummy’s ten at Trick Two. East had been taught to “cover an honor,” and since he had two honors, he could hardly not play one of them. So the trick was: ten, queen, ace, king.

Last Diamon

South took the king of diamonds, led a club to his ace, ruffed his last diamond and led another trump. East got his nine and jack, but, playing carefully, South lost only a spade

besides. Making four.

East could gain nothing by covering the ten of trumps. If South had A-K-8-7-6 and planned to let the ten ride, East could never score more than one trump trick. But if West has a singleton honor, East will regret it if he covers. Daily Question

You hold: ♠ Q 5 ♥ A 8 7 6 3 ♦ 983 ♣ A 8 2. Your partner opens 1NT, and the next player passes. What do you say?

Answer: South in today’s deal responded with an old-fashioned three hearts, forcing and showing 10 or more points and probably a five-card suit. Now, most pairs use “transfer” responses. You bid two diamonds, obliging your partner to bid two hearts. Then you bid 3NT, offering a choice of games. Discuss transfers with your partner. North dealer Both sides vulnerable