Is an appeal a play?

[TussAgee11]

Sr. Babe - R1 + R3, 1 out. Flyball to F9, caught. 2 outs. R3 retouches and scores.

Defense is told to appeal to 1st base, but they throw to 3rd base. I am PU, signal safe. They then get the ball back and throw to 1st base. BU calls out, runner left early.

I scored the run (4.07 Approved Ruling). That is a whole different story though, coach wasn't too pleased and uttered the "p" word.

Is the appeal of 3rd considered a "play", which would make the defense lose their right to appeal at 1st?

7.10 doesn't mention it, only thing close is the mention of a balk being considered a play.

A TD mentioned that you used to not be able to make 2 appeals... is that the case? Only my 4th year.

But, more importantly, is an appeal a play or an attempted play? I say no, but would like a rule reference. Books are in North Carolina.