Two lead problems
After their runaway success against Essex in the first Eastern Counties League match where they won 20-0, the Suffolk 'A' team were left looking at the other end of the victory point scale in the second contest of the season. They were losing by the maximum after two sets of eight boards but managed win the next two, sadly by small margins, to salvage some respect. I'm glad to say that the 'B' and 'C' teams continued their winning ways – full scores and line-ups to follow next week.
Also continuing in winning vein were the English Women's team, Sally Brock / Margaret Courtney, Heather Dhondy / Nicola Smith and Michelle Brunner / Rhona Goldenfield who retained the European Championships in Tenerife. This was the first time England had won the Europeans, in 1999 and 1997 they were successful as Great Britain. The Italians won the open for the fourth time in succession – no change there.
Two hands, one from the county match, one from the European Women's event had a curious similarity, you have to find a lead in each case:
- A10964
- K7642
- 4
- K9
Both Vul
The second offering:
- AQ1087432
- 54
- 7
- 107
EW Game
In both cases a competitive auction has led the opponents to bid a slam without having the opportunity to check for aces. The simple question is do you lead your ace (spades in both cases) or something else? I'll give you some help – it's right to do so on one hand but not the other. Full deals next week.
Published Saturday 7.Jul.2001