BRIDGE

Declarer topped the queen with the ace, crossed to the king of diamonds and mysteriously advanced the queen of hearts. This was ducked all around and he switched to clubs to ensure the contract. West refused to discard a spade on the third diamond but nine tricks were in the bank.

East could have defeated the game by covering the heart queen and returning a club. West would clear the suit and later pitch a club on the third diamond to corral a one-trick set.

South should play a heart towards dummy at trick two but will suffer defeat when East wins the king to fire back a club. West clears the suit, wins the heart continuation and sets the contract.

North should have investigated a 5-3 heart fit by revealing five hearts via a leap to three hearts or perhaps employing Smolen to reveal five hearts and four spades. In this scenario, the major suit game is likely to be reached.

A club would be the most effective beginning regardless of whether North or South becomes the declarer. Ten tricks might be a tall order when West ruffs the third round of diamonds with the nine of hearts.

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. Copyright 2022 Torstar Syndication Services