You be the Judge

I saw this interesting thread over in Bridgewinners, written by a guy I know well. So far, there are 85 votes in the poll, and 27 comments:



North

Q4

10542

AKQJ9

52



West

5

J93

1087654

AQ4



Auction (IMPs, N dealer, NS vulnerable)

N E S W

1D 1S 2H p

3H p 4H Dbl

p p p



This is from a recent Swiss team event. N-S are known to be aggressive bidders.



My double was speculative, but we play sound overcalls, so with my stiff spade I thought we had a decent chance of setting this.



You lead the spade 5, and partner wins the king. He surprises you by shifting at trick two to the club 3. Declarer plays the jack. Plan your defense.











At the table, I won the club queen, and, based on partner's club 3, it seemed clear he had the king. So, my double was going to pay off and we could get this contract for 500! All I have to do is underlead my club ace over to partner's king, he can cash the spade ace, and give me an uppercut!



Unfortunately, when I returned the club 4, partner played low, not wanting to give up his king. I think this is a clear error by partner, as he is essentially playing declarer to have four clubs on top of his five hearts and presumed five spades, but still, in hindsight I should have made it easier for him by winning the club ace, and then leading to his king.



Minus 790 was the result, losing 13 IMPs instead of winning 9. (4H down 1 for -100 at the other table)



You be the judge - who made the worst error?

You be the Judge