No you can't defend Ryanair in this case, because it is an ongoing screening policy, which makes it illegal according to European law.
I have had several professionals review this, I know several pilots both inside and outside the company, so I am very well aware of the reality.
On what grounds you can defend Ryanair, is completely beyond me. Maybe I am not the right guy for the job, but at least follow the standard and fair selection procedure, and not automatically disqualify because of age. If you believe that is correct, well that's your opinion.
However agree just to get on to the next one with the job search, still what Ryanair does is wrong and against European law!