Bridge - The Scotsman 21/12/12

THIS deal from the SBU Winter Congress was a good one for an opening 2D that shows a weak major two-suiter.

North enquired with 2NT to discover that partner was 5-5 and maximum, and punted 4S, a very lucky contract.

Those not playing Ekrens had to pass. Some Wests believed this hand to be opening bid. One lady opened a weak no-trump and was

raised to 3NT, an easy make when North led his longest suit.

Others opened 1D, and East bid 3NT. South naturally led the queen of spades.

East covered the second round, thus losing five spade tricks.

Now South simply cashed the ace of hearts, then partner’s king, and that was three down.

When West passed it was up to East to open the bidding.

Most players are reluctant to open in fourth seat when short in spades. They consult Pearson points: add the high card points to the number of spades, and open if the total is 15 or more.

Derrick Peden chose to pass, not because he did not trust Pearson, but because he did not see one of his kings. When he discovered

what he had done he was extremely apologetic. He did not cheer up till he heard the result from the other table, where East did open1NT and West raised to game.

South led a low heart and made the first five tricks. He switched to the queen of spades, declarer rose with the king and lost the

next five tricks.

Six down gave Derrick 12 imps for his welljudged Pass.