DANNY CIPRIANI came through his comeback in fine style — but could not stop Wasps slipping to another Premiership defeat.

The champions slumped to their fourth loss in five league games despite four Cipriani goals that helped them into a 16-12 first-half lead.

Cipriani suffered an horrific broken and dislocated ankle against Bath in the Premiership semi-finals on May 18.

So to see him barking orders, kicking goals and looking as if he had never been away was an uplifting sight for the whole of English rugby.

And that could never be more crucial given Jonny Wilkinson’s latest injury blow.

Cips said: “I was very happy to get through the match. I was a bit rusty and I made a few mistakes.

“I was very sorry to hear about Wilkinson. I’ve just come through months of rehab and my heart goes out to him.”

Watched by girlfriend Kelly Brook, Cips gave his all for 51 minutes before being replaced by Jeremy Staunton.

Yet it was Cips’ error that led to Bath taking the lead on six minutes.

He failed to gather a Butch James kick and Matt Stevens set up a try for Michael Claassens.

Stevens doubled the lead before Cipriani booted Wasps ahead with three penalties and a conversion to Riki Flutey’s 34th-minute try.

Bath hit back with a Pieter Dixon try and James penalty.

And although Tom Rees’ try — converted by Staunton — put Wasps ahead on the hour, the lead lasted two minutes before Joe Maddock went over to bag victory.