The Bridge Corner,
By Gary Mitchell

Opening Lead: Spade three

The bidding explained: North raised South’s Hearts as South has somewhere between 10 -17 points for the two-level overcall. South is maximum, so accepts the invitation.

The play: East wins the opening lead and returns a Spade. West trumps and the defenders are thrilled. Whatever West now returns, declarer wins and starts on trump. East wins his Ace, but that is the end for the defenders. Chalk up another game, bid and made. Should it have been made?

No! East was in too big a rush to give West his spade ruff at trick two. East has the Ace of trump, so declarer cannot pull trump without East getting the lead. East should lead her singleton Club at trick two. Now, when declarer tries to pull trump, East wins and leads a spade. West trumps and leads a Club. East trumps and down one is good defense.

Questions: email gary@smabridge.com. Lessons: Call 152-6351.