|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Answer It is possible that North is strong and that North-South can make a game in hearts or clubs. It is therefore attractive to make a pre-emptive response. With Q-x-x in partner’s diamond suit, you are a bit too strong to bid just 3S. Respond 4S instead, with good chances of making the contract. AWARDS: 4S-10, 1S-7, 3S-6. David Bird — Knight Features
|
||
|
|
||
THERE
are many players who would open 2NT on South’s 19 points, or would
open a Multi 2D and rebid 2NT. It is not a good idea. Firstly, you
will be too high when partner has a bust and will be forced to lead
away from your honour cards when you cannot reach dummy. Secondly, you
waste bidding space. You are much better placed after a start of, say,
1D-1S-2NT (not on these hands, on some different hands) than if you
open 2NT. You have already named two suits and can proceed further
with investigating the best fit. Anyway, how would you play 3NT when
West leads the ten of clubs and East plays the jack? You should win
immediately, otherwise a spade switch will put your contract at risk.
All will be fine if the diamond suit breaks 2-1. What can you do if
there is a 3-0 break? If West holds Q-10-8, you are doomed. You can
pick up Q-10-8 with East but you must be careful not to block the
suit. Only one play is good enough. You must lead the nine of diamonds
to dummy’s king. West shows out, so you finesse the jack of diamonds
next. The ace of diamonds wins the third round and you can then lead
the five of diamonds to dummy’s seven. Always look carefully at the
spot cards when you have a long suit in an otherwise entry-less dummy.
What response will
you make?