The comeback of Ionela

The lead passed from hand to hand, 4 times over — it was anyone's guess.

The tail of the table: Elena, with 58 points. Somebody has to hold the candle. From leader to red lantern. The little wedge tipped the big cart — and the cart was Elena. In the last of the opening eights, Elena bid 0 and took 4 — and Ana went down with it.

Third, and on the podium: Ana, with 66 points. Ana was even in front after the third of the middle eights.

Mihai took second with 80 points — a fine evening, but the gods of whist were busy elsewhere. In the second of the opening eights: Mihai said 2, made 6, and the evening was ruined for Ana. From the tail of the table to a warm spot: Mihai plays right down to the last card.

Ionela won at a stroll, with 102 points and 22 clear of the rest. At one stretch, 10 good hands in a row. And that despite a slip in the very last hand.

Congratulations to all — see you at the next table!