My grumpy definition of a traffic light: a device that turns red when you approach it. Bridge tables should have one that turns yellow caution! when somebody is about to play carelessly.

Today’s East-West had a paying sacrifice at five clubs but were silent in the auction, no doubt put off by the vulnerability. In fact, they were right not to save since South went down at four hearts.

West led a club, and South ruffed the second club and took the K-J of trumps. When West discarded, South couldn’t draw trumps, leaving him with none; then the defense would cash clubs when West took the ace of diamonds.

So at Trick Five South led a diamond. West ducked, won the next diamond and led a third diamond for East to ruff. West also got a spade for down one.

South was incautious. On the second club, he must pitch his spade loser instead of ruffing, preserving his trump length. If the defense leads a third club, South can ruff in dummy, and his game is safe.

Daily question >> You hold: ? Q 10 9 5 ? 4 ? A 9 7 6 ? K J 8 4. The dealer, at your left, opens one heart, and two passes follow. What do you say?

Answer >> You mustn’t sell out at the one level when your partner is marked with some points. (If he had none, the opponents would have bid a lot more). You may have a makeable partscore or game. Double. You might not double a one-heart opening at your right, but actions in the “balancing” position may be shaded.

South dealer

E-W vulnerable

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