A Triple Squeeze is an advanced squeeze play in bridge that targets all three opponents. It involves establishing three separate threat suits and applying pressure to force each opponent to discard crucial cards, ultimately leading to a favorable outcome. While it may seem complex, understanding the basic principles will empower you to recognize and execute this powerful tactic.
Step 1: Identify the Key Suits and Entries
To execute a Triple Squeeze, you need to identify three long suits in your hand, with each suit holding the potential for additional tricksA round of 4 cards where each player contributes 1 card. There are 13 tricks in a game of bridge.. It is crucial to have enough entries to reach these suits multiple times throughout the play. Accurate counting and planning are essential.
Example:
DeclarerThe player who during the auction made the first bid the SUIT of the final contract, becomes the declarer. The also play their partners hand which is now renamed 'dummy.'
Declarer plays both their own and dummy's hand.: ♠ A K Q J 7 ♥ – ♦ Q 9 8 7 ♣ 10 9 8
DummyThe declarer's partner is called the dummy, and after the opening lead has been made by the opposition dummy lays all their cards on the table face up.
That is the end of this game for dummy and they have no more to play in this game.
Declarer now plays ...: ♠ – ♥ 4 3 2 ♦ 10 6 5 ♣ A K Q J 7 6
Defenders: ♠ 10 9 8 3 2 ♥ A K 9 7 5 4 3 ♦ 4 ♣ 4 3 2
In this example, declarer’s target suits are spades, diamonds, and clubs. The heart suit is also important for establishing entry paths.
Step 2: Establish the First Threat Suit
To begin the Triple Squeeze, declarer establishes the first threat suit by playing cards from that suit, forcing the defenders to discard. Timing is crucial to maintain control and ensure entries to reach all three threat suits.
Example:
Declarer leads a low spade from their hand, playing low spades from dummy. The defenders must follow suit and discard. Observe their discards carefully, as they may reveal valuable insights into their holdings and vulnerabilities in other suits.
Step 3: Observe the Defenders’ Discards
Analyzing the defenders’ discards is key to planning your Triple Squeeze. Look for clues about their holdings and potential weaknesses in the other suits you aim to exploit.
Example:
DefenderThis term refers to the pair who did not win the auction/bidding The defender to the left of declarer is the player who plays the first card in a game A discards a low heart, indicating potential weakness in that suit. Defender B discards a low diamond, suggesting they may hold higher cards in that suit.
Step 4: Establish the Second and Third Threat Suits
With the first threat suit established, declarer focuses on the second and third suits. Create entry paths, maintain control, and force discards from the defenders in these suits as well.
Example:
Declarer plays high diamonds from dummy, while the defenders discard. Defender A discards another low heart, confirming their weakness. Defender B discards a low diamond, revealing their vulnerability in that suit.
Next, declarer plays high clubs from dummy, continuing to apply pressure. The defenders discard again, indicating their holdings and exposing potential vulnerabilities in the club suit.
Step 5: Execute the Triple Squeeze
With all three threat suits established and the defenders’ weaknesses uncovered, it’s time to execute the Triple Squeeze. By playing high cards from each suit in sequence, declarer forces all three opponents into an inescapable position, compelling them to discard crucial cards simultaneously.
Example:
Declarer plays a high spade, while Defender A discards a low heart, Defender B discards a high diamond, and Defender C discards a low club. The Triple Squeeze is in motion, as all three opponents find themselves squeezed in their respective suits.
Step 6: Reap the Rewards
Having executed the Triple Squeeze, declarer can now reap the rewards. With the defenders stripped of their vital cards in all three threat suits, declarer may potentially win extra tricks and secure a significant advantage.
Remember, the Triple Squeeze requires careful planning, accurate reading of the opponents’ discards, and the ability to establish and exploit multiple threat suits. While it is an advanced technique, understanding the basic principles will allow you to recognize potential Triple Squeeze opportunities and gradually enhance your bridge skills.
Continue to explore the intricacies of bridge, practice your counting, and develop your ability to identify squeeze possibilities. The Triple Squeeze is a remarkable strategic play that, when executed successfully, can elevate your game to new heights.
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