Leicester City

Liverpool's Lucas submits his application for 'Howler of the Year'

Published Nov. 15, 2016 2:40 p.m. ET

Alex Dowd

Liverpool had a nearly perfect first half against Premier League champions Leicester City on Saturday.

Nearly.

The Reds were cruising against the Foxes behind goals from Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane, and looked poised for more, but then Lucas happened. The Brazilian made a mistake that put Leicester right back into the match in the 38th minute, with a gift goal presented on a silver platter for Jamie Vardy.

All Lucas could do after that ill-fated decision was throw his hands to his head in disbelief. To be fair, center back isn't Lucas' preferred position, and this was his first Premier League appearance of the season ... but it's still pretty inexcusable. A midfielder by trade, Lucas was forced into the lineup after an eye injury pushed Dejan Lovren out of the match.

You'd think the biggest worry with a midfielder filling in at center back would be his strength and aerial prowess, not his ball skills. Alas, Lucas panicked, Liverpool saw their lead cut in half and we have an early entry for "Howler of the Year."

Fortunately for Liverpool, the gaffe doesn't look like it'll cost them points. They reclaimed their two-goal lead in the 57th minute.

MORE FROM FOX SOCCER: