Welcome to my new series on DEFENCE. This is a continuation following on from the articles dealing with the “Rule of 11”, a good place to start when we are discussing defence.

Before we get into all aspects of defence, we need to work out a basic structure of how to play combinations of cards when we a) start the defence with the opening lead and b) continue the defence after the opening lead has been made and the beginnings of a plan formed by both defenders.

Declarer play is much easier if you follow the basic rules of counting the points, taking finesses where needed, and keeping a close eye on all the cards. And, of course, use all the cards to develop as many tricks as you can. A bit of understanding of your opponents also helps. This deal should have produced 11 tricks in No Trumps for every East irrespective of the bidding or the defence.

Board 7 from Wednesday 8/03/23
Dealer South All Vul

	QT6542 93 A5 Q65
J97 84 K9763 K73		AK3 AKQ7 842 AJ2
	8 JT652 QJT T984

Two basic rules in bridge play are: “second hand low” and “third hand high” and they are certainly good as far as they go. However they should not be followed blindly, because such rules are there to help with decisions, not become automatic. Another ‘rule’ that is closely tied in with the ‘rules’ for second and third hand play is the Rule of 11, which I explained earlier. Now let us take a look at the problems posed previously, and look at how the “Rule of 11” can be instrumental in your decision of which card to play as second or third hand.

For the next few weeks, I would like to introduce something different. The topic I am about to cover may be relevant to actual X-Clubs deals, in which case I will, as usual, write them up from actual play.

For the rest of the time, as in this issue, I will discuss a bit of theory, on DEFENCE, for any readers who are keen to improve their defence. I will start this issue with some theoretical questions relating to defensive play, and it would be helpful if the readers would participate by giving me their input, with answers to me (Vil) at villyn@xtra.co.nz

[Editor's note - you better Listen Up! Vil is too modest to mention it but he and partner Lynne Bruce were top of 207 pairs in the Tuesday Night session and again top but of 410 pairs in the Friday Daytime in the week (09) just passed. Vil must know what he's talking about, wouldn't you think?]

Why I love Defence

Even the most boring hand can be made more interesting when you’re playing a match point game, because just one overtrick can make a big difference to your score. The results on this board at our club were identical, 3NT by East, jack of diamonds lead, making three, at every table but one, where the
declarer made an overtrick for 100% on the board.

Board 20 from Tuesday 7/02/23
Dealer West All Vul

	AKJ 9874 642 Q76
Q654 653 K83 AJ9		932 AKQJ AQ5 KT5
	T87 T2 JT97 8432