On the surface, this appears to be a rather typical part score deal. The East-West pair should be able to score eight tricks by playing a heart partial and the North-South pair should be able to score eight tricks at a diamond partial. Either way, East-West will be +100 or +110. Even with three aces it does not seem logical for West to double South's three diamond call. The defense, however, at this table, was spectacular.
West, not wanting to underlead an ace before seeing the dummy, started with the ace of spades. East played the seven and West continued with the three. East won the king and returned the nine, suggesting an entry in the heart suit. West trumped this lead with the three of diamonds. Trusting partner, he underled the heart ace. West won the king and returned his fourth spade,
Declarer tried to trump with the jack of diamonds. West over-trumped with the queen and then, as if the first five tricks were not enough, he underled the ace of clubs.
This went to the three, ten and king. At this point there was no way for the declarer to avoid losing two more club tricks in the end game. The contract was set three tricks for a score of +300 for East-West and a top on the board.
Declarer could have trumped the fourth spade with the ace of diamonds and then played a diamond to the king, He would be able to draw trump but would still be faced with two club losers. This situation was the result of West being willing to take a chance and underlead the ace of hearts.
He clearly found the best defense.
The American Bridge Association is holding it's Annual Cleveland Grade "A" Bridge Tournament at the Red Rock Inn, 24801 Rockside Road, Bedford, from October 27 to 29.
Single session Open Pair events will start at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Friday. There will be a single session "Zip" Swiss Team game at 9 a.m. on Saturday, followed by single session Open Pair events at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. A Modified Round Robin Team event will start at 9 a.m. on Sunday.
Entry fees for all events will be $7.00 per session and a lunch will be provided between sessions on Sunday for $4.00.
For any other information or partnership arrangements, call
(216) 751-9408.
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Bernstein is
a free-lance writer in Solon.
To reach Harvey Bernstein:
hjb0416@yahoo.com