Vubridge Expert Kit
Lesson #22 - Defense: Deception

Editorial by Paul Bowyer

Welcome to the twenty-second edition of VuBridge Expert Kit. In this issue we continue the theme of defense where we are looking at foolin’ the enemy. We have looked at deception as declarer, now we look at how you might lead declarer astray, while keeping partner sweet, of course. The first series of six deals focuses on playing the card you are known to hold in order that declarer can’t read your hand accurately. The second series contains hands where a judicious false-card may make declarer alter his intended line of play – to his disadvantage.

In all cases the aim is to provide declarer with a losing option in the play. Often, declarer only has one way to play a hand and, as a defender, you can see he is destined to succeed. An intelligent false-card is designed to give your opponent an alternative, losing, line of play.

Oh what a tangled web we weave,
When first we practice to deceive
Sir Walter Scott

The remaining eight hands, as ever, are all on counting the hand. Ben Norton, shows you how the mind of an expert works in ascertaining how to play certain card combinations. Some of these contracts appear mundane and some are more exciting, but all require careful thought on the reader’s part. The clues are all there if you look hard enough. Enjoy.

Deception in Defense - Part I

This series of six deals, the first half of a dozen hands on the topic, is all about deception in defense.

In this series, the aim is to distract declarer from his intended line of play by giving him an alternative line of play, a losing option.

The main ploy is to play the card you are known to hold in the hope that this will cause declarer problems.

As ever, if you are going to make a deceptive play, it is best to do so in tempo and not stare at the ceiling for some time before making the play.

Series #6018 - Deception in Defense - Part I

Deception in Defense - Part II: This series of six deals, the second of half a dozen hands on the topic, is all about deception in defense.

In this series, the aim is to distract declarer from his intended line of play by subtle false-carding.

As ever, if you are going to make a deceptive play, it is best to do so in tempo and not stare at the ceiling for some time before making the play.

Series #6019 - Deception in Defense - Part II:

Series #6008 - Counting the Hands:

Here, you have eight assorted deals to play, with a theme of Counting the Hand.