The auction started off poorly.
Over 1
, with a four-card spade suit AND a game-force hand, begin with a game-force response of 2-of-a-minor. This makes for a much more comfortable auction.
Imagine, for example, that responder has a five-card spade suit and wishes to inquire about a possible fit. The auction begins with 1
– 1
– 2
– now what? To force to game and inquire about a fit, responder must either bid it or trot out a 4th suit forcing call of 3
(artificial). Yuk!
Keep in mind that bypassing 1
after a 1
open DOES NOT deny a four card spade suit
if responder has GF values.
With the hand as shown, my auction could go a couple of ways:
1
– 2
– 2
– 2
– 2NT – 3NT – 4NT – 6NT
Where 2 establishes the GF
2 shows four or more diamonds
2 shows four spades which is still in play as a strain. It also denies three hearts.
2NT patterns out showing either 3=5=4=1 or 2=5=4=2. Also, usually, 12-14 HCP.
3NT to play.
4NT invitational to 6NT showing (17)18-19.
6NT accepts with 15 HCP.or . . .
1
– 2
– 2
– 3NT - 6NT
Where 2 establishes the GF
2 shows four or more diamonds
3NT denies three hearts, denies four diamonds, and because of the jump shows "extras." Most people play in the range of 15-17. NO FAST ARRIVAL IN NOTRUMP!
6NT accepts with 17 HCP and a five card suit I'm not nearly as fond of this auction due to the jump. That
AQ could be huge for a possible fit and partner has not yet denied having six of them.
Other auctions are possible. The key takeaway is to bypass 1
with GF values and only four spades when partner opens 1
to establish the GF.
