The Bridge Corner
By Gary Mitchell


Dealer: North

Opening Lead: Heart two


The bidding explained: South’s jump to 3NT showed a reasonably balanced hand with 13-15 points, and Hearts stopped.

The play: East won the opening lead with the Ace and returned the 10. Declarer put in the Jack, losing to the Queen, and Hearts were led a third time. East got in with a Club and set the contract with Hearts tricks. Was South’s play of the Jack at trick two correct? 

If South had played the King at trick two and led a Club, East would win and continue a Heart to West’s Queen, but since East cannot regain the lead, South will make his contract.

Which play is correct? The question becomes, would West have led the Heart two from three small, or does he promise an honor? This is exactly why a lifetime of playing this game has taught me to lead low from three small, when leading partner’s suit. The less information the opponents have, the better the defense will fare.

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