Keeping the der: the last trick's 10 points
Updated
The last trick, "the der," scores a 10-point bonus. Keeping it can make or break a tight contract: it's a skill in its own right.
Why the last trick matters
A deal is worth 162 points: 152 in the cards plus 10 de der for the last trick. On a tight contract, those 10 points often decide the result. Forgetting them risks sinking a contract you thought was won.
How to keep it
Keeping the der means holding a sure card for the last trick: a master trump once the others have fallen, or, if you lead the last trick, an ace in a suit no one can ruff anymore. Count trumps to know whether your card is still a master on the 8th trick.
Don't sacrifice the contract for the der
- The der is only 10 points: don't lose 3 tricks to keep it.
- If you're well clear of your contract, don't overcomplicate for it.
- On a tight score or a capot, though, the der can change everything.
Example: the der that makes the contract
You took 90 in spades. After 7 tricks, your side has 84 points. You have the 8♠ left, and you've counted trumps: the other 7 have fallen, so your 8♠ is the last trump in play. The Q♥, 8♦ and 7♣ also land on the last trick.
- You win the trick: 3 card points (the queen) + 10 for the der = 13. Total 84 + 13 = 97: contract made.
- If you had played your 8♠ earlier and lost this trick: you stay at 84, the opponents rise to 162 - 84 = 78. Contract down.
Even a "small" 8 of trumps, worth no points, can be worth 13 points and a whole contract at the right moment.
Setting up the der from the midgame
- Count trumps: it's the only way to know whether your card will still be a master on the 8th trick.
- Don't lead your last trump by reflex on the 6th or 7th trick if none are left outside: it's more useful on the last trick.
- Failing a trump, a card from a suit everyone else has run out of also works, if you lead the last trick and nobody holds a trump anymore.
- On defence, keep something to fight for the der if the contract comes down to a few points.
Want to practise? Play coinche online for free: tunable AIs and a coach are waiting for you on Coincheur.See also
FAQ
Why keep the last trick in coinche?
Because the last trick scores a 10-point bonus that often makes or breaks a tight contract. Holding a winning card for the 8th trick secures those points.
Which card should you keep for the der?
One that's sure on the 8th trick: a master trump once the others have fallen, or, if you're the one leading the last trick, an ace in a suit no one can ruff anymore.
Does the 10 de der count toward making the contract?
Yes. The last trick's 10 points go to the side that wins it and count when checking whether the contract is made. That's why a deal is worth 162 points, not 152.