(sports) To attack the ball instead of an opponent who is usually controlling the ball. Often considered a positive action, and sometimes a requirement not to concede a penalty.

present participle of play the ball, not the man

present participle of play the man and not the ball

To not believe that someone will achieve their stated aim.

simple past tense and past participle of play the ball and not the man

Third-person singular simple present indicative form of play the ball and not the man

simple past tense and past participle of play the ball, not the man

Abbreviation of Nottinghamshire or Nottingham.

Alternative form of you don't get something for nothing

One cannot expect to receive some benefit if one does not pay for it in some way or does not face a counterbalancing hazard or harm.