Very nicely done and shows the need for clear thinking at T1 (OK, maybe T2 – T1 isn’t a problem for South). Another iffy slam though – it needs HK onside, H not 4-0 and at least one spade honour onside. So I think this is roughly 50% * 90% * 75% which is only just better than 1 in 3.
Thank goodness for the S9, though although he wastage in D is a little unlucky.
Regards,
Iain
bobbywolffAugust 2nd, 2023 at 4:25 pm
Hi Iain,
Yes, and may I offer something not often considered, in the play there are often, perhaps at least half the time when the specific spot cards (usually, a higher than six value) in at least one suit to determine the number of tricks taken, sometimes being the contract trick, but, of course, while playing matchpoints, highly determines the play, but, of course, likely has little to no bearing with influencing the bidding, since, until the dummy comes down and the vilification process unfolds, does it become apparent. Also applies on defense, but then, often a sheer guess, hoping for partner to hold what is necessary for success.
Some will call it the luck element in the game, but in truth, yes it is well nigh impossible, before the dummy comes down, to even guess the particulars, but after, especially for the experienced expert at the helm, to be deft at taking maximum advantage with both
technique as well as, at least trying, to disguise a winning defense, for those pesky opponents.
Just another verification of how important numbers become, when discussing expressly for the declarer, but, occasionally, also sometimes applying to defensive player perfection.
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Hi Bobby,
Very nicely done and shows the need for clear thinking at T1 (OK, maybe T2 – T1 isn’t a problem for South). Another iffy slam though – it needs HK onside, H not 4-0 and at least one spade honour onside. So I think this is roughly 50% * 90% * 75% which is only just better than 1 in 3.
Thank goodness for the S9, though although he wastage in D is a little unlucky.
Regards,
Iain
Hi Iain,
Yes, and may I offer something not often considered, in the play there are often, perhaps at least half the time when the specific spot cards (usually, a higher than six value) in at least one suit to determine the number of tricks taken, sometimes being the contract trick, but, of course, while playing matchpoints, highly determines the play, but, of course, likely has little to no bearing with influencing the bidding, since, until the dummy comes down and the vilification process unfolds, does it become apparent. Also applies on defense, but then, often a sheer guess, hoping for partner to hold what is necessary for success.
Some will call it the luck element in the game, but in truth, yes it is well nigh impossible, before the dummy comes down, to even guess the particulars, but after, especially for the experienced expert at the helm, to be deft at taking maximum advantage with both
technique as well as, at least trying, to disguise a winning defense, for those pesky opponents.
Just another verification of how important numbers become, when discussing expressly for the declarer, but, occasionally, also sometimes applying to defensive player perfection.