A Squeeze-Trim-Endplay (Real Hand)
April 5, 2005, matchpoint club game on Long Island. I am playing 3C. Lefty had opened a 15-17 HCP 1NT. Righty had transfered to spades. For better or worse, I balanced in with 3C.
Q10x
A9xx
K10x
98x
xx
Q8x
xxx
AJ10xx
The opening lead was the ace of spades. Lefty continued to trick 2 with a small spade. This strongly suggests that Lefty does not have the king of spades, so I played the 10 of spades. To my surprise, this forced out the king of spades. Righty continued spades, allowing me to throw a diamond loser. Lefty followed with the jack of spades.
I still cannot place the HCP -- Righty has 3-5 of the remaining 16 HCP. Anyway, I am on the board and I want to draw trump. It would be very nice if Righty had a club honor. I ran the 9 of clubs to Lefty's queen, and he returned a club. The third round of clubs collected the king from Righty and a heart from Lefty. This left my position as
--
A9xx
K10x
--
--
Q8x
xx
10x
Now what?
Discussion/Answer
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