FRANK STEWART BRIDGE

SLAM PSYCHOLOGY

Cy the Cynic says if you want to start an argument on the internet, it’s a two-step process: 1. Post an opinion; 2. Wait 10 seconds.

In today’s deal, the ruckus began soon after the opening lead. South took the ace of diamonds and cashed the ace of trumps — and East discarded. South then took the A-Q of clubs. When EastWest played low, South shrugged and led a low trump. West took his queen and cashed a diamond for down one, and North was aghast.

“It was cold,” North roared. “Lead a third club to dummy’s ten. Your only chance is to find West with J-x-x-x; a 3-3 break won’t help.” Undertrick

“After East is void in trumps,” South said, “it’s most unlikely he has two low clubs. Your play would usually lose an extra 100-point undertrick.”

If South played the slam 100 times, I don’t know whether he would come out ahead by adopting North’s line of play. But the damage to a partnership’s morale and a player’s reputation when he loses a makeable slam is not inconsiderable.

Daily Question

You hold: ♠ 7 5 2 ♥ J 9 82 ♦ 52 ♣ A K 10 4. The dealer, at your left, opens one club. Your partner doubles, and the next player passes. What do you say? Answer: You must not pass partner’s double for penalty. His hand is probably short in clubs, and you might not beat one club doubled. It’s wrong to “headhunt” before you investigate your chances on offense. Bid one heart. Partner has heart support, and you may have a game.

South dealer

N-S vulnerable