Bridge - The Scotsman 21/12/2011

AT most forms of scoring in bridge you should be prepared to give up a possible overtrick to ensure the success of your game contract. South opened a strong no-trump (15-17) and North raised to game. West led the queen of hearts and declarer counted his Sure Tricks. There were rather more than usual: three spades, two hearts and three clubs. Where should he look for a ninth trick?

You can probably establish two length tricks in diamonds, but that involves giving the lead to opponents three times, giving them the opportunity to establish and cash two or three heart tricks as well. Since diamonds are clearly too slow declarer looks for his extra trick from clubs. The normal play in the club suit is to unblock the king and queen, then cross to the ace of spades to cash the ace. That will bring ten tricks if the jack of clubs drops on any of the first three rounds, but what if one opponent has Jxxx? Declarer can concede a trick to the jack to establish a long club, but there is no entry to dummy to cash it, and down he goes.

It is possible to guarantee nine tricks in this contract. Cash the king of clubs, then overtake the queen with the ace. If the jack drops, well and good, but when it does not you can continue to play clubs. Your 1098 must make two tricks once the jack is taken, and you have preserved the ace of spades as an entry to your winners.