Try like mad to make a comeback (4)
I believe the answer is:
stab
'try' is the definition.
(I know that stab is a type of try)
'mad to make a comeback' is the wordplay.
'mad' becomes 'bats' (informal term for mad).
'to make a comeback' says the letters should be written backwards (I've seen 'making a comeback' mean this).
'bats' in reverse letter order is 'STAB'.
'like' is the link.
(Other definitions for stab that I've seen before include "Puncture" , "Attack with a knife" , "Attempt (with dagger?)" , "Sudden sharp pain" , "Thrust at and pierce" .)