Neither side vulnerable. South deals. NORTH S: K 7 6 5 4 H: 3 D: J 6 4 C: J 5 3 2 WEST EAST S: 10 8 3 2 S: J 9 H: K J 8 7 2 H: 5 D: 8 7 D: A Q 9 5 3 C: Q 6 C: A 10 9 8 7 SOUTH S: A Q H: A Q 10 9 6 4 D: K 10 2 C: K 4 SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST 1H Pass 1S 2NT Double 3C Double (All Pass) Opening Lead: H3 South opened the bidding with a solid one heart. Many Norths would pass for a number of reasons but the competion was match point duplicate and while that is not a good reason for bidding one spade, it is a reason, none the less. Easts two no trump bid is conventional. It is known as the "Unusual No Trump". The most common use of this bid is to show a hand with both minor suits, which is what East actually held. In most cases the two no trump bidder is trying to find a minor suit fit for the purpose of sacrificing in the event that the opposition reaches game. South doubled to show a good hand and the ability to double one of the minor suits at the three level. West is no longer forced to bid. It would be very reasonable for him to pass and let East play two no trump doubled or escape to the better of his two minor suits. In this case, West felt that he should take a preference to clubs because of the queen. North doubled because he could not stand a three heart call from partner, and because he would be on lead to attack with the singleton heart. North did start with the three of hearts to South's ace. South continued with the queen of hearts, covered by the king, ruffed small by North, and over trumped by East. A club was led toward the queen. South played the king, which held. The ten of hearts was covered by the jack, ruffed and over ruffed. East played the ace of diamonds and then continued with a low diamond. South ducked and the trick was won by North. A small spade was led to the queen and South continued with the nine of hearts. East ruffed with the ten of clubs and then ruffed a diamond with the queen of clubs in dummy. The eight of hearts was led. North ruffed with the jack of clubs and East over ruffed with the ace. At this point, South has the lone outstanding trump along with the ace of spades and a good heart. East led a diamond, South ruffed and claimed. The contract was beaten three tricks. When the opponents enter the auction with bids specifically designed to disrupt your ability to find the proper contract, it is important to remember that you always have the option of passing or making a penalty double. Every once in a while, the opponents will strike gold and make their doubled contract. Don't let it ruin your game. Congratulate them on a fine result and go on to the next hand. When you can do this, your game will start to improve dramatically. ____________________________________________________________________