Over Optimistic

15^th September – Board 16: East/West Game. Dealer West.

Like losing a tennis match when your opponent has a winning net-cord at match point it is infuriating when the opponents at the bridge table earn a huge swing due to the vagaries of Lady Luck. At least three pairs reached a grand slam in diamonds on the hand shown below, a contract with a chance of success somewhat less then 20% instead of the near 70% required. The main fault lay with the choice of opening bid, and while I appreciate that the West hand is a three-loser that is only a good thing if a fit is found. Imagine a hand opposite with a void diamond and a small doubleton club and you will see what I mean. I think the auction might go something like:

West	North	East	South
1D	No	1H	No
2C	No	2S	No
4D	No	4H	No
5C	No	6D	End

2S is fourth-suit forcing of course and 4D sets up a game-forcing sequence. East should not get over-excited because good as his long suits are they are not going to be useful in getting rid of any trump loser! The play in 7D is not a problem; win the opening lead and play ace and a low club to ruff on table. With the fall of the club king all that is now required is to hope for the favourable trump position and when that occurs to try not to gloat.