The Bridge Corner
By Gary Mitchell

Opening Lead: Diamond Two

The bidding explained: North did not like the plethora of Queens and Jacks, so underbid his hand. South fell in love with his hand, and bid the game.

The play: East won the Diamond lead and led back a Diamond. South, seeing no problems, trumped the Diamond and played the Heart Ace, and a Heart to the Queen, getting the bad news. He now tried the Spade finesse, losing to the King. West, seeing that his partner could have started with four Hearts, boldly led the Diamond Queen. South had to trump, and now East had more trump than South. In the fullness of time, South went down one. Was it bad luck or bad play?

Sure, Hearts rate to break 3-2. Does it hurt to take out insurance? When East returns a Diamond at trick two, discard a Spade. West wins the Queen, but cannot hurt you. You will be able to pull trump, knock out the Club Ace, and discard your two remaining Spades on the two good Diamonds. 

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