3. Put the trumps to work

South Deals      

EW Vul

J 10 5

K 9

K 7 5 2 

A 7 5 3

A 7 3 2

J 7 4

9 8 3

Q J 6

9

Q 10 8 5 2

10 4

K 10 9 4 2

 

K Q 8 6 4

A 6 3

A Q J 6

8


West       

North       

East        

South                                                 

Opening Lead: Q♣

   

1♠

Pass

2♣

Pass

2

Pass

4♠

Pass

4NT

Pass

5

Pass

6♠

Pass

Pass

Pass

Tempting as it may be to win A♣ at trick 1 and trump a club at trick 2, this will result in defeat with West playing a 3rd round of clubs when in with A♠, eventually giving West a second promoted trump trick. Trumping with the long trumps, though sometimes necessary, does not gain tricks. Trumping with the short trumps however does gain. So, win A♣ and at trick 2 play K then 9 to A and trump your 3rd heart. Now draw trumps. West can win A♠ and play a 2nd club which you trump. But you still have three trumps left, enough to draw all of West's remaining trumps, before enjoying your diamonds.