BRIDGE

South captured the queen of clubs with the ace, led a heart to the king, a diamond to the king and played another heart. West rose with the ace and cashed three clubs on which declarer discarded two spades. West exited safely with the jack of hearts but South led a diamond to hand. cashed the ten of hearts and played a diamond to the ace felling the jack for nine tricks.

If West had shown out on the third diamond, South would be forced to take a spade finesse for success. Alternatively, if West had turned up with jack fourth of diamonds, he would be reduced to one spade. Should declarer attempt the spade finesse or lead a spade to the ace hoping to drop the king?

In this scenario, East would be marked with five spades to West's two, suggesting a spade hook, but this play would culminate in a two-trick defeat when West wins the last two tricks.

The nine-trick game is likely to be reached at virtually all tables without an accident. North's collection is worth an invitation and South is not minimum and should move on to 3NT.

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.