Clever defense

By Djanwar R. Modjolelo

JAKARTA (JP): Bruce Ferguson and his partner got to a good slam on this Spingold Knockout Team 1996 deal, but perfect defense on the part of Peter Weischel turned a likely gain into a major loss.

Even though he was the victim, the hand was given to Henry Francis, former editor of the bridge bulletin ACBL.

Dealer: North Vulnerable: All

NORTH

(S) K 9

(H) A 9 7 2

(D) Q J 10 9 4

(C) K 8

WEST EAST

(S) 4 3 (S) 10 7 6 2

(H) 10 8 5 (H) K Q 6 4

(D) K 6 3 2 (D) 8 7 5

(C) Q 10 6 5 (C) 9 2

SOUTH

(S) A Q J 8 5

(H) J 3

(D) A

(C) A J 7 4 3

WEST NORTH EAST SOUTH Weischel Levin Ferguson ----------------------------------- 1D Pass 1S Pass 1NT Pass 2D* Pass 2H Pass 3C Pass 3S Pass 4C Pass 4H Double 5H Pass 6C Pass 6S All pass

* Forcing System

Without a Heart lead, the slam would be easy - just give up to the Diamond King. But there wouldn't be any story if Peter Weischel hadn't led a Heart.

Ferguson of course went up with the Ace and immediately concentrated on Diamonds. He crossed to the Ace, got back to dummy with the Spade King and passed the Diamond Queen, discarding his losing Heart. But Weischel had worked out the situation -- he ducked!

Ferguson continued with the Jack, throwing a Club, and this time Weischel took his King.

Weischel went along with Ferguson's plan of action, leading a fourth round Diamond. Bobby Levin of course ruffed and Ferguson overruffed - but one of his Diamond tricks was destroyed. He was back to 11 trick again.

He cashed four rounds of Spades then led a Club to the King to take pitch on the last Diamond. He still had to take the Club hook, and when that failed he was one down.

Weischel had to find the Heart opening lead, duck the Diamond Queen, win the Diamond Jack with the King and lead a fo}rth round of the suit. And he had to be blessed with the Club Queen. Masterful defense.