Bridge in the Tri-Cities: Inside Information

Opening Lead: Four of spades

The Bidding: South was the only one at the table that knew E/W could bid and make game and probably slam. Partner would have opened the bidding with most any 12 points and that left E/W with at least 28. With this “inside information,” he decided to muddy the water in the suit that they most probably would bid game or slam. His partner could not take a joke and raised the ante with 3S. East came to life, but West did not like hearts and suggested clubs. The auction ended at 5C, which was a poor contract with most E/W pairs bidding 3NT and making six.

The Play: Declarer rose with the queen of spades, drove out the ace of diamonds, and claimed twelve tricks. Because the heart finesse works, twelve tricks are there for the taking with any lead when played by West.

What Happened: Most E/W pairs bid 3NT and made six. South’s strategy paid off with a top board, but E/W could have prevailed by doubling 3S. It most likely would have gone down five for a score of plus 1100. Bidding and making a slam in clubs, diamonds or NT would have even worked out better.

This story was originally published July 23, 2016 at 7:37 PM with the headline "Bridge in the Tri-Cities: Inside Information."