How everyone can learn to defend like an expert. A detailed discussion of signals, leads, matchpoints, defensive conventions and protecting partner. Quizzes and a unique partnership test at the end.
The author begins this thorough discussion of a neglected but vital topic by examining the real purpose of defensive signalling, and the basic kinds of signals that are available. He goes on to recommend a comprehensive set of signalling agreements, and analyzes more complex situations in the light of these agreements. Most of the chapters are followed by a quiz, and the answer to each signalling problem includes a full 52-card diagram to demonstrate the effectiveness of the recommended signal. The book finishes with a chapter that looks at the signalling methods of eight world-class pairs, with examples of their methods in action. A book any player who is looking to improve will want to read.
Defense is the hardest part of playing bridge, but that doesn't mean that it's impossible to learn. The authors explain how to make a plan as a defender: how to work out from the auction and play what declarer probably has, and which of the strategies available to defenders is likely to be successful.
Multi-time world champions Karen McCallum and Kit Woolsey explain their relay system, KK Relay, which they have used and perfected for several years. For readers not familiar with relay systems, the relay concept is quite simple: instead of making a descriptive bid, one of the partners makes a call that asks a question. His partner answers that question. That's it! Many such systems are obtuse and difficult to remember, but KK Relay has been structured in a way that both eases memory burden and increases efficiency. A must read for any system wonk.
Written for complete beginners, this book is based on material that Barbara Seagram uses in her own classes to introduce hundreds of new players to the game every year. The book will take readers to the point where they can enjoy a social game with friends or begin to explore their local bridge club.
Defensive Signals & Leads is the first book in a series of publications designed for the student of bridge. This book is designed to elaborate, explain, and improve the defensive agreements and understandings that a player and partnership has during the defense of a bridge hand. It teaches all of the common defensive methods, and more importantly, how to properly implement each method. You will learn how to properly use attitude, count and suit-preference signals as well as how and when each of the signals change depending on which card the declarer plays or calls for, information learned from the auction, or what the dummy holds. Defense is half the game. You cannot be a successful bridge player without a sound understanding of defensive leads and signaling principles.