The opponents won the contract; it happens. Get the defense off to a good start. That is your goal when you are playing defense. The opening lead is the first salvo in the battle to win tricks. As you first start playing bridge, you will think that leading winning cards on defense is the best way. Unfortunately, it is not a good tactic against no-trump contracts unless you have both the ace and king of a suit and some lower cards to back up those honors.