The Bridge Corner
By Gary Mitchell, March 30, 2007



Opening Lead: Diamond Queen

The bidding explained: North’s jump to 4 Spades promises Spade support and 12-15 points. South is interested in slam, but is worried about his holding in the Club suit. So, South cue bids first round control of Diamonds by bidding 5 Diamonds over 4 Spades. North then bids 6 Clubs to show first round control of Clubs and South bids the slam.

The play: South won the opening lead and immediately led a Spade to the Ace. When he got the bad news he lost a Spade and Club for down one! This one takes a lot of foresight.

If Spades are 2-1, the contract is safe. So, the only danger is a 3-0 trump break. If West has the three Spades, having him on lead does no good. However, if East has the three Spades, you can create an end play situation. So, you need to protect against West by playing the Spade King first. If West holds three Spades, you can finesse and claim your contract. If East shows up with the three Spades, you take your Spade Ace, then cash your other Diamond. Now you are ready to run the Hearts. If East does not trump in, lead a Spade to put East on lead. He will have to lead a Club for you or give you a ruff/sluff. 

Is it easy to see at trick one? Not exactly!

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