Bridge - The Scotsman 16/04/13

PLAYERS often overbid a little at teams, especially when vulnerable, tempted by the large game bonus. Even 30 per cent games may make when cards lie well, or the killing opening lead is missed, or there is a misdefence.

On this deal from a Congress teams North, playing five-card majors and a strong no-trump, opened 1C in third seat. Over East’s weak jump overcall South stretched to bid 2NT – the bid would be more excusable with a second diamond stopper. North’s raise to game, opposite a hand that could not muster an opening bid, was equally dubious. West led the ten of diamonds, ducked all round, and continued with the nine, also ducked to South’s king. Declarer tackled hearts, playing low to the queen, then cashing the ace. West knew the key to the defence was to find partner’s entry, and gave thought to unblocking the king of hearts. When partner’s jack fell it was clear that plan wouldn’t work. He won the third heart, and East had an opportunity to discard. She was playing reverse attitude, so a small club might attract a club switch. A spade discard looked dangerous, but Paula Leslie found a way to indicate where a possible entry lay: she discarded ace of diamonds. This told partner her diamonds were now solid, and her entry was in the higher-ranking suit, spades.

If West switches to clubs declarer can make four club tricks and his contract. It is essential for East to make the situation clear.