Suction

Defense against 1NT opening: suit overcall shows either 1) the suit above it, or 2) five-five distribution or better in other 2 suits

• DBL shows clubs or hearts and a minor. Continuations after 1NT - DBL - Pass - 2 are:
  • Pass = clubs
  • 2 shows diamonds and hearts.
  • 2 shows hearts and clubs (usually 5 hearts and 4 or 5 clubs)
  • 2 shows spades and clubs (6 clubs and 4 spades)
  • 2NT shows 6 clubs and 4 diamonds
• 2 is diamonds, OR 5 - 5 in hearts and spades
• 2 is hearts, OR 5 - 5 in spades and clubs
• 2 is spades, OR 5 - 5 in clubs and diamonds
• 2 is clubs, OR 5 - 5 in diamonds and hearts

Over a weak NT you could keep the same structure or make these changes:

• DBL is penalty
• 2/2/2 carry the same meaning
• 2 is clubs or diamonds and hearts
• 2NT is clubs and hearts
• 3 is diamonds and spades

Suggested Defenses vs. Suction Over 1NT:

DBL (or RDBL) = Eight good or more HCP. We play it or they play it doubled.

Rebids by the Opening side after the opponents bid a suit:

• DBL = Penalty; in the immediate seat, showing good trumps and in the pass-out seat, penalty also but may be on power, not trumps.
• 2 of a Major = If they accept the one suit shown or one of the two suits shown, at the two level, a bid of 2 of a major not shown by the opponents, in the pass-out seat, shows a four-card suit and is forcing.
• 2NT in the pass-out seat = Invitational. Denies strength in opponent’s suit.
• 2 of a Major (over 2 or above) = To play.
• 2NT, 3, 3, 3 = Invitational or better transfers. Generally bid game or show HCP concentration with a maximum, in response.

Over DBL by the opponents: Systems are on (Stayman, Jacoby, etc.)

Over 2 by the opponents:

• Dbl = Eight good or more HCP, penalty oriented.
• 2 = Stayman.
• 2/2 = To play.
• 2NT = Lebensohl.