| The X-Ray Attack
This month's column features a fascinating hand submitted by Lori Johnson of Columbus, OH . This deal occurred during a local Tournament. Lori was sitting in the South seat. This is an illustration of what I call the "X-Ray Attack" -- the lead of a card from the dealer's right-hand opponent, and the attempt to force a fatal trump play. However, South was on her toes, and found the winning line. This was the complete layout: | |
| ** SCORE 9 - 9 **____________________** UPCARD -- Jack of Hearts **
West, with three trump, was tempted to order up the Right to South. Then again, there was always the chance that their partner might come in with a bid, if South did choose to pass. Finally, if South opted to grab the Right, the West hand was perfect for defense. The bidding went pass, pass, pass, and South had to make a decision…
South finally picked up the Jack of Hearts, and unloaded their useless Diamond 10. West, the eldest hand, opened with a brisk Ace of Clubs, which drew the 9 and 10 and an immediate ruff with the Heart 9. Eschewing a trump play, South opted for a "sneaky" lead of the 9 of Spades. East won the Ace, and tabled the Ace of Diamonds. Rather than succumb to the fatal temptation of a ruff, South ignored the "X-Ray" attack, and tossed their last Spade. West, with nothing but trump, played the 10. That was the end of the defense. West was forced to lead from the Left -- Queen into the Right -- Ace, and South came home with the game! Thus, South avoided two traps -- the premature lead of a trump, and the premature trumping of East's Diamond. These plays were the hallmark of a seasoned veteran! Well done, Lori! | |
