Hockey stars disappear in bizarre scenes (VIDEO)

Two stars in a Swiss hockey league got more than they bargained for in a recent clash as the pair plunged into an icy ditch at the side of the rink.

The unusual incident happened in the meeting between SC Langenthal and HC Sierre in the second-tier Swiss League.

In the 14th minute, Sierre star Arnaud Montandon and opponent Tyler Higgins both crashed into the boards.

The impact was forceful enough to jolt open the gate which leads to the ditch used by the 'Zamboni' ice cleaner to clear the rink.

Both men dropped into the icy water below, prompting the game to be paused while bemused teammates and officials give the unfortunate pair a hand to haul themselves out.

The bizarre moment was captured by the cameras and reports indicated that both men emerged unscathed – albeit a lot wetter than when they started the game.   

Making light of the incident, the Langenthal Twitter account joked that Sierre might need to consider some repairs to their rink to avoid similar mishaps.

Visitors Langenthal ended up winning the encounter 3-2 to secure their hold on fourth spot in the Swiss League standings, three places ahead of Sierre.