[mikestar]

I've read quite a bit about the Overcall Structure and it seems to have a lot going for it. But I've never seen anything published about how to handle (1x)-P-(P) balacing autions playing the OS. Since partner will long in the enemy suit or weak, what balancing methods are best?

[DJNeill]

Hi all,
I play OS off in the balancing seat.

Thanks,
Dan

[pclayton]

Same as Dan.

A few random points:

1. The need for OS in the balancing seat is diminshed if you play mini-ELC. The problem 4-5 hands are handled by doubling and bidding a new suit.

2. Doubles need to be takeout to protect a trap and/or to be more flexible - 15-17 bal, mini ELC or 3 suited.

If you play OS as written with the garbage 1 level overcalls, the need to balance with drek is greatly diminshed. When pard passes 1 of a minor, you can put him on a balanced 14 or less, a bust or a trap. Be choosy!

[mikestar]

DJNeill, on Mar 18 2005, 05:26 PM, said:

Hi all,
I play OS off in the balancing seat.

Thanks,
Dan

Of course. My question is, how does the fact that you are playing OS in direct seat affect your balancing methods, given the direct seat pass is so much more informative that in standard defensive bidding?