[mbyron]

Originally Posted by bob jenkins

I agree that no "magic phrase" is required. Heck, if I see / hear a coach trying to get his team to appeal, I'll often just ask, "Coach, what are you trying to do?"

In the OP, however, it is NOT clear to me that the coach knew both runners left early.

And to me that's the key: it's clear THAT he wants to appeal, but not clear WHICH runner he's appealing.