Goren Bridge

QUESTION 1: Neither vulnerable, as South, you hold:

♠ AJ7 ♥ Q85 ♦ 653 ♣ A 10 7 4 Partner opens 2NT, 20-21, and right-hand opponent passes. What call would you make?

A: Don’t get excited. You have a combined 30-31 points. That is a lot, but not enough for slam. Bid 3NT.

Q: North-South vulnerable, as South, you hold:

♠ A K 10 ♥ K5 ♦ K8754 ♣ J94 Partner opens 1D and right-hand opponent passes. What call would you make?

A: Many would blast into 3NT, but we think you should show your diamond fit first. Every system should have a forcing minor-suit raise available. Make yours. For us, it is 2D, inverted.

Q: East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold:

♠ K J 10 9 8 ♥ K 10 7 ♦ A J 10 ♣ A8 EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH 1NT Dbl Pass Pass 2♥ ?

What call would you make?

A: This is what you wanted — a chance to bid your suit after showing a strong hand. Bid 2S.

Q: Both vulnerable, as South, you hold:

♠ 54 ♥ 63 ♦ 8 ♣ KJ986532 Partner opens 1S and right-hand opponent bids 2D. What call would you make?

A: It hurts, but there is nothing you can do at this vulnerability. Pass. Maybe you can bid later.

Q: North-South vulnerable, as South, you hold:

♠ K8 ♥ K75 ♦ 10 ♣ AKQJ976 SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST 1♣ Pass 1♥ Pass What call would you make?

A: Had partner bid 1D, 3NT would be a reasonable bid now. Partner responded 1H, however, so bid 3C instead.

Q: East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold:

♠ A9764 ♥ A2 ♦ 875 ♣ K86 NORTH EAST SOUTH WEST 1♥ Pass 1♠ Pass 1NT Pass 2♣ Pass 2♠ Pass ?

What call would you make?

A: It is close between 3S and 4S. We like 3S, but many experts would bid 4S.

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