This lesson that covers the concept of the Entry Squeeze — a tactical play that capitalizes on maintaining entries to execute a squeeze. In this lesson, we will explore the fundamentals of the Entry Squeeze and provide examples to illustrate its power.
What is an Entry Squeeze?
The Entry Squeeze is a maneuver in bridge that leverages the ability to maintain entries to your hand while executing a squeeze play. By carefully managing your entry cards, you can force the opponents into making difficult choices, leading to a favorable outcome.
Step 1: Identify the Key Suits and Entry Cards
To execute an Entry Squeeze, you need to identify two key suits, one in your hand and one in the 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 .... Additionally, it is essential to have enough entry cards, typically high cards or winnersA card that will win the trick after four cards have been played to the trick, to access the suits multiple times during the play.
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 J 7 6 ♥ – ♦ Q 9 8 7 ♣ 10 9 8
Dummy: ♠ – ♥ K Q J 10 ♦ 10 6 5 ♣ A K Q J 7 6
Defenders: ♠ Q 10 9 8 3 2 ♥ A K 9 7 5 4 3 ♦ 4 ♣ 4 3 2
In this example, let’s focus on spades as the key suit in declarer’s hand and hearts as the key suit in the dummy. The high cards (ace, king, queen) in the spade suit serve as entry cards.
Step 2: Establish the Threat Suit
To initiate the Entry Squeeze, establish a threat suit where you hold significant cards, ideally with potential tricksA round of 4 cards where each player contributes 1 card. There are 13 tricks in a game of bridge.. This suit will be used to apply pressure on the opponents.
Example:
Declarer leads a low spade from their hand, playing low spades from dummy. The defenders follow suit and discard. Observe their discards carefully, as they may provide insights into their holdings and potential weaknesses in other suits.
Step 3: Maintain Entries and Establish Control
Maintaining control is crucial in executing an Entry Squeeze. Preserve your entry cards and create opportunities to regain the lead. Maintain control in the threat suit while keeping an eye on the opponents’ discards.
Example:
Declarer plays a high spade, winning the trick. To maintain entries, declarer now plays the ♣A from dummy, establishing control in the dummy’s key suit. The defenders discard accordingly.
Step 4: Prepare for the Squeeze
With control in the dummy’s key suit, it’s time to set up the squeeze position. Continue playing cards from the threat suit while preserving your entry cards, gradually exerting pressure on the opponents.
Example:
Declarer plays a low spade from their hand, promoting the ♠K in dummy. The defenders discard as before, and the squeeze position begins to take shape.
Step 5: Execute the Entry Squeeze
Now that the squeeze position is established, it’s time to execute the Entry Squeeze. By playing cards from the threat suit, you force the opponents to make difficult choices while maintaining the ability to reach the established squeeze position.
Example:
Declarer plays a high heart from dummy, while the defenders discard. 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, caught in the squeeze, discards a low club. Defender B, feeling the pressure, discards a high diamond.
Step 6: Reap the Rewards
Having executed the Entry Squeeze, declarer can now reap the rewards. By leveraging entry cards and applying pressure on the opponents, additional tricks may be won, securing a significant advantage.
Remember, the Entry Squeeze requires careful management of entry cards and maintaining control in the threat suit. It is a tactic that demands a balance of skill and timing. With practice, you will refine your ability to recognize squeeze opportunities and execute them successfully.
The Entry Squeeze is a valuable tool, providing opportunities to out-maneuver your opposition.
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