BRIDGE

South continued with the king of clubs as West won the ace to deliver the diamond ruff. East led the spade king as West overtook and returned the nine for partner's ten.

East cashed the king and queen before switching to the king of hearts. Declarer scored two clubs, one diamond and one trump winner to finish down three, N-S -800.

The defense could have recorded a four-trick set when West begins with ace and another spade or East continues with a low trump after leading the king.

The real question is - how can N-S avoid this disaster. North should conclude that East will pass the takeout double and should immediately escape to a red-suit. Since diamonds are much stronger than hearts, a two diamond response is suggested.

This action would present East with a bidding problem and it is far from clear what action he would take.

The nine-trick game is a very unlikely destination because neither East nor West own a diamond stopper. On this layout, 3NT would yield an overtrick because the diamonds are blocked.

Four spades would roll home because West miraculously holds the ace and nine! The only way that the major suit game might be reached is if East risks an advance to four spades!

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