LOCAL footy came back with a bang at Gol Gol as the Hawks and Dane Swan held on to defeat reigning premiers Bambill in the first match of the Millewa League season.

As the game started, cars were still piled up waiting to get in to the packed Alcheringa oval to see the Brownlow medalist and Collingwood premiership star in action for the Hawks.

The Saints were gallant and made a push in the final...