Defending against declarer: forcing it down

When an opponent takes the contract, your goal shifts: you no longer try to make it, you try to stop them reaching their contract, ideally to set it.

Count for the set

Declarer must make their contract out of 162 points. Your defence wins if it keeps them below their bid. Track how many points they still need: every defensive trick, every ten you grab counts.

Cash your masters fast

Against a declarer who'll draw trumps, take your aces and tens while you can. Waiting risks seeing them ruffed. Leading your side ace is often the right first defensive move.

Play as a team

• Overtake declarer's card, not your partner's.
• Drop your points (ten, ace) under the trick when your partner is master.
• Signal your strong suit so they lead toward you.

See also

FAQ

How do you set declarer in coinche?

By keeping them below their contract: cash your masters before trumps are drawn, grab points from them and coordinate with your partner.

Should you put points on your partner's tricks?

Yes, when your partner already wins the trick, slipping a ten or ace under it raises your defensive total at no risk.